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Apollo’s Jim Zelter said the firm sees up to $100 billion of investment opportunities in Germany over the next decade, spanning direct lending and investment‑grade real estate, amid Europe’s improving appeal to private capital. Germany’s policy shifts—including a $500 billion fund for defense, infrastructure and climate projects and the pro-business leadership of new Chancellor Friedrich Merz—are drawing investor interest to financing industry, military, and critical infrastructure. Broader turbulence and tariff policies in the U.S. are pushing capital toward Europe: Neuberger Berman reports Europe has risen to about 65% of its direct investments this year, focused on developed markets, energy security/transition, defense, digitalization, and industrials. Public markets reflect the shift, with Germany’s DAX up ~22% and Europe’s defense stocks surging, while U.S. benchmarks lag. Retail investors can access related themes via European equities and emerging vehicles like the PRIV ETF for investment-grade public and private credit, though private markets carry notable risks.

Apple’s WWDC 2025 emphasized a major visual overhaul across iPhone, iPad, Mac, Watch, TV, and Vision Pro rather than breakthrough AI. The new “Liquid Glass” design—transparent, rounded UI elements with fluid animations inspired by VisionOS—marks Apple’s biggest software facelift since iOS 7, enabled by more powerful Apple Silicon. Wall Street reacted negatively (AAPL down 1.2%) as AI updates were seen as incremental versus rivals; Apple offered no new timing for its delayed Apple Intelligence/Siri upgrade, saying it needs more time. Notable features include deeper ChatGPT integration (e.g., screenshot summarization) and on-device live call translation with AI-generated voice. Apple is also renaming OS versions by year (iOS 26, iPadOS 26, etc.) starting this fall to simplify versioning and signal annual cadence.

Asia-Pacific stocks rose on June 10 as investors awaited details from a second day of U.S.-China trade talks in London. Japan’s Nikkei (+0.92%), Topix (+0.43%), South Korea’s Kospi (+0.42%), Kosdaq (+0.77%), China’s CSI 300 (+0.16%), Hong Kong’s Hang Seng (+0.33%), Australia’s ASX 200 (+0.73%) advanced, while India’s markets were flat. U.S. futures edged up after positive comments from President Trump; Wall Street closed mixed with modest moves. Principal Asset Management warned of ongoing policy-driven volatility, favoring value and domestic sectors like utilities, real estate, and financials, with select opportunities in software and internet. Macquarie forecast a South Korea bull market under President Lee Jae-myung, citing pro-shareholder policies; Kospi hit its highest since July 2024. South Korean retailers slumped on a proposed bill to close large chains on public holidays. Taiwan’s Taiex jumped 2% to a 2-month high, led by tech; TSMC gained nearly 3%. Asian currencies mostly weakened versus the U.S. dollar. Oil extended gains (Brent above $67) on optimism around U.S.-China talks. Ed Yardeni said investors are increasingly jaded by tariff gyrations but expect a resolution that avoids recession.

Bulgaria has received approval to join the euro zone, a move backed by its government for promises of greater economic stability, lower borrowing costs, and increased foreign investment under ECB oversight. Economists note potential gains in trade, tourism, and financial integration, with limited transitional inflation since the lev is already pegged to the euro. However, public skepticism is high—driven by fears of price spikes, loss of monetary sovereignty, and political tensions that could fuel populist opposition. Experts broadly judge the long-term benefits—stability, reduced transaction costs, and deeper EU integration—to outweigh the downsides.

China’s fast-growing coffee chains Luckin Coffee and Cotti Coffee are pushing into the U.S., starting in New York City, after aggressive expansion and price-driven success in China. Luckin, which rebounded from a 2020 fraud scandal, plans a lower Manhattan store following international moves in Southeast Asia; Cotti, founded by ex-Luckin executives, has already opened in Brooklyn and Manhattan. Their model—low prices, tech-driven efficiency, and experimental drinks—could face higher U.S. costs (wages, payments, tariffs) that narrow their price advantage over Starbucks. New York offers a diverse, competitive testing ground, and younger Americans may be receptive, but sustained success will require mainstream, routine adoption beyond novelty appeal. Starbucks is responding to China’s competition by cutting prices there, underscoring intensifying global coffee price wars.

U.S. and Chinese trade officials met in London, with talks set to continue focused on easing China’s rare earth export curbs and potential U.S. relief on chip software controls. JPMorgan’s trading desk says a positive outcome could push the S&P 500—about 2% below its February record—to a new high. U.S. stocks edged up Monday (S&P +0.09%, Nasdaq +0.31%), while Europe’s Stoxx 600 dipped. Apple unveiled an iOS redesign called “Liquid Glass,” new real-time translation, Vision Pro upgrades, and macOS Tahoe at WWDC. Nvidia’s Jensen Huang called the U.K. a “Goldilocks” environment for AI, though lacking domestic infrastructure. In deal news, Alphawave surged on a Qualcomm takeover, and Spectris jumped on talks with Advent. Separately, the “Bitcoin Family” revamped its crypto security amid kidnapping risks, scattering encrypted seed data across continents.

European stocks were set to open higher Tuesday, lifted by optimism over ongoing U.S.-China trade talks in London that could avert escalating tariffs. Futures pointed to modest gains for the FTSE 100, DAX, CAC 40 and Italy’s FTSE MIB. Global markets, including Asia-Pacific and U.S. futures, also rose as investors watched negotiations involving U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and other top officials, with potential easing of U.S. restrictions on chip software, jet engine parts and ethane reportedly on the table. The U.K. unemployment report is due, with few other major data or earnings expected.

U.S. fund managers, led by the Investment Company Institute, are urging Congress to amend Section 899 in President Trump’s tax bill, warning it could trigger rapid foreign outflows from U.S. equities by imposing escalating retaliatory taxes (up to 20%) on investors from countries with “unfair” taxes like the EU, UK, Canada, Australia, and Switzerland. The ICI says the provision inadvertently hits most foreign investments in U.S. stocks and would make investment funds and their shareholders “collateral damage,” risking depressed markets and reduced industry fees. While supportive of protecting U.S. interests, the ICI argues the current draft undermines that goal and may benefit foreign markets. Experts note dividend income is most at risk, though overall impact on U.S. equities may be muted given low dividend reliance and greater use of buybacks.

Microsoft-backed French AI firm Mistral launched its first reasoning model, Magistral, aiming to rival OpenAI’s o1 and China’s DeepSeek R1. CEO Arthur Mensch said Magistral excels at step-by-step reasoning, mathematics, and coding, with a key differentiator: strong native reasoning across multiple European languages, addressing a gap where U.S. models skew to English and Chinese models to Chinese. Mistral, known for open-weight LLMs that let developers access and modify parameters, plans to expand language support beyond Europe over time.

The U.K. government has selected Rolls-Royce to build Britain’s first small modular nuclear reactors (SMRs), concluding a two-year process and signaling a major push into nuclear power alongside a £14.2 billion investment in the Sizewell C plant. Three SMR units are planned, with grid connection targeted for the mid-2030s, potentially powering 3 million homes and supporting up to 3,000 jobs. Rolls-Royce called the move a significant milestone; its shares rose over 2%. The government aims to sign a contract and allocate a site this year, pending regulatory approval. SMRs are promoted as cheaper, faster, low-carbon energy sources, though some environmental groups argue nuclear is costly compared with alternatives.

U.S. stock futures rose early Tuesday as investors awaited progress in U.S.-China trade talks, with Dow futures up 0.29%, S&P 500 up 0.4%, and Nasdaq 100 up 0.5%. Monday’s session was muted: the S&P 500 eked out a small gain, the Dow was flat, and the Nasdaq rose about 0.3%. Markets are watching for a trade deal that avoids high tariffs after both countries recently agreed to temporarily cut duties. Investors also look ahead to small business data Tuesday and key inflation reports later in the week. Earnings to watch include J.M. Smucker and GameStop. After hours, vaccine makers dipped after HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said he would remove all members of the CDC’s ACIP advisory panel. Notable movers included Cracker Barrel (down 8.1% on a proposed $275 million convertible notes offering) and Limoneira (down 8.5% after weaker Q2 results).

Stocks to watch Tuesday: Apple and suppliers: Apple fell 1.2% after WWDC, with muted AI updates; suppliers outperformed (Qualcomm +4%, Texas Instruments +3.5%, Qorvo +3.2%, Corning +0.35%). Apple is 22.6% below its Dec. 26 high; several suppliers remain well below 2024 peaks. Vaccine stocks and HHS news: After-hours moves were mostly flat; Moderna -1%, Sanofi +1%. Comes after HHS Secretary RFK Jr. dismissed members of a key CDC vaccine panel. Many big pharmas remain well off 2024 highs (Moderna down 81% from last year’s peak). Boeing: Up 3.2% Monday, near $220 and at a new high; +41% in three months. May deliveries report Tuesday at 11 a.m. could move shares. Microsoft: Hit an all-time high at $472.75; market cap $3.5T. Near a potential “golden cross”; RSI at 76 signals overbought but not determinative. McDonald’s: Recently downgraded by Morgan Stanley and Loop Capital amid fast-food concerns. Shares -0.8% Monday, 6.6% below March high, but up ~19% year over year. Jim Cramer pushed back on downgrades. Social sentiment: VanEck Social Sentiment ETF (BUZZ) closed at a new high, led by strong monthly gains in Rocket Lab, AST SpaceMobile, Super Micro Computer, Robinhood, and Roblox.

The UK’s Labour government will unveil a multi-year Spending Review setting departmental day-to-day and capital budgets, with limited overall growth and tough trade-offs under strict fiscal rules. While defense, transport, health, and childcare are set for above-average settlements, other areas—policing, affordable housing, the environment, and local government—likely face cuts or tight squeezes. Real-terms day-to-day spending is expected to rise just 1.2% annually, implying average 1.3% cuts for many departments. Investment will be higher than in recent years but still insufficient to meet demands such as reducing NHS backlogs, accelerating grid decarbonization, and boosting growth. With borrowing constrained and debt required to fall by 2029–30, analysts expect the government to avoid major welfare cuts, maintain fiscal rules (possibly tweaked), and consider further tax hikes—potentially on investments—later this year amid skepticism that current plans will deliver stronger growth.

A 21-year-old former student opened fire at BORG Dreierschützengasse high school in Graz, Austria, killing 10 people before apparently killing himself. The victims included six females and three males on campus; a tenth victim died later in a hospital. The attacker legally purchased a pistol and a long gun. Authorities deployed over 300 police officers, including elite COBRA units, and evacuated the school, directing families to a nearby stadium. The rare mass school shooting shocked Austria, prompting three days of national mourning. The incident reignited discussion of gun availability in Europe, where stricter firearm laws and lower ownership rates correlate with fewer school shootings compared with the United States.

Argentina’s Supreme Court upheld former President Cristina Fernández de Kirchner’s 2022 corruption conviction, confirming a six-year prison sentence and a lifetime ban from public office. At 72, she is likely to receive house arrest, though she may be briefly detained while arrangements are made. The ruling, which rejected her appeal, intensifies political tensions amid her planned return to politics and sharp clashes with President Javier Milei. Kirchner denounced the decision as politically motivated; supporters staged protests, and unions threatened strikes. The case involved steering public works contracts to an ally during her presidency, a scheme the court said began under her late husband, Néstor Kirchner. Despite multiple legal cases, she remains influential as leader of the Justicialist Party and had recently announced a run for a provincial seat that would have granted immunity. Milei celebrated the ruling, while her base rallied outside her home.

La Corte Suprema de Argentina confirmó la condena por corrupción contra Cristina Fernández de Kirchner, imponiéndole seis años de prisión y la inhabilitación de por vida para cargos públicos. Aunque es poco probable que cumpla cárcel efectiva por su edad (72), podría recibir arresto domiciliario tras una detención formal. El fallo, que reafirma un esquema de fraude al Estado durante los gobiernos de Néstor Kirchner y sus dos mandatos (2007-2015), tensó aún más la política argentina: hubo protestas de sus seguidores y celebraciones desde el gobierno de Javier Milei. Fernández de Kirchner, líder del peronismo y recientemente candidata a la legislatura bonaerense, denuncia persecución política y mantiene una base leal pese a múltiples causas pendientes, incluyendo lavado de dinero y encubrimiento en el caso AMIA.

The article argues that Kris and Kylie Jenner are reshaping beauty culture by openly detailing their plastic surgeries, turning secrecy into branded transparency. Kris Jenner’s dramatically refreshed face and Kylie’s TikTok disclosure of precise implant specs and surgeon names reframe cosmetic procedures as luxury labels and artistic authorship. This “reverse-Pygmalion” trend, the piece contends, aligns with an AI-saturated era where authenticity blurs and bodies become curated, technological creations. The Jenners’ candor is praised for honesty but seen as a cultural shift from natural ideals to proudly engineered aesthetics, echoing broader media and theater experiments that merge flesh and simulacra.

A 21-year-old former student opened fire at BORG Dreierschützengasse high school in Graz, Austria, on Tuesday, killing 10 people before dying by apparent suicide in a school bathroom. Over 300 officers, including COBRA special units and a helicopter, responded after reports around 10 a.m. The attack is Austria’s deadliest in recent history and among Europe’s deadliest recent school shootings. Chancellor Christian Stocker called it a national tragedy and declared three days of mourning. Authorities have not released the suspect’s name; details about victims and broader context include Austria’s generally rare mass shootings and regulated but present gun ownership.

The Smithsonian Institution asserted it, not the president, controls personnel decisions after Donald Trump claimed to fire National Portrait Gallery director Kim Sajet, challenging the administration’s effort to influence cultural institutions. Backed by its Board of Regents, including VP JD Vance, the Smithsonian reaffirmed Secretary Lonnie G. Bunch’s authority and its nonpartisan mandate, directing museum leaders to ensure “unbiased content” while leaving open possible policy or personnel changes. The move comes amid Trump’s broader attempts to reshape cultural entities and criticism of DEI, with the White House citing Sajet’s diversity-focused initiatives and exhibits as partisan. The Smithsonian, funded largely by Congress but governed as an independent trust, emphasized institutional autonomy even as Bunch faces political pressure.

Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, in a letter to France’s Emmanuel Macron and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman ahead of a UN conference on Palestinian statehood, called for Hamas to relinquish control of Gaza, disarm, and immediately release all hostages. He pledged to reform the Palestinian Authority and hold elections within a year, and said Palestinian security forces, with Arab and international backing, would oversee Hamas’s removal. Abbas condemned the Oct. 7 attack as “unacceptable,” expressed readiness for a UN-mandated stabilization force, and supported a timeline to resolve final-status issues. France welcomed the commitments as unprecedented, while Israel opposes French recognition of a Palestinian state and is skeptical of PA control in Gaza. France has not decided whether to recognize Palestinian statehood.

Australia, Britain, Canada, New Zealand, and Norway announced coordinated sanctions on far-right Israeli ministers Itamar Ben-Gvir (national security) and Bezalel Smotrich (finance), imposing travel bans and asset freezes over incitement of extremist violence and abuses against Palestinians, particularly amid rising West Bank settler attacks and the Gaza war. The move seeks to pressure Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu toward a Gaza cease-fire and highlights Israel’s growing diplomatic isolation, though critics call the step largely symbolic. Israel condemned the sanctions; the U.S. opposed them and urged reversal, emphasizing focus on Hamas. France did not join, reflecting allied differences, while some European states continue weighing recognition of a Palestinian state. The ministers dismissed the sanctions, vowing to continue settlement expansion.

The White House is urging Texas Republicans to pursue mid-decade congressional redistricting to protect and potentially expand the GOP’s slim U.S. House majority in 2026. The push, which some Texas Republicans fear could backfire by endangering their own incumbents, would shift GOP voters from safe districts into nearby Democratic-leaning ones to make them more competitive. An “emergency” meeting of Texas’s GOP congressional delegation showed reluctance, but discussions among state leaders have intensified, with a possible special legislative session in July floated. The move would revive a contentious tactic last used in Texas in 2003 and likely spark legal and political battles, especially as current 2021 maps face federal court challenges over alleged discrimination against Black and Hispanic voters. Despite Republicans’ 25–12 advantage, strategists believe they could net four to five seats, though demographic trends and a potential Democratic wave pose risks.

After Elon Musk and Steve Davis left the government’s cost-cutting initiative known as DOGE, the White House and insiders are debating succession. Joe Gebbia, Airbnb co-founder and Tesla board member, was initially considered to take charge but declined a solo leadership role amid scrutiny. The current plan is a small advisory council, likely including Gebbia and investment banker Anthony Armstrong, both Musk allies. Officially, Amy Gleason remains the U.S. DOGE Service administrator, while the effort moves forward under presidential and agency direction. With multiple departures and backlash tied to Musk’s feud with President Trump, DOGE faces uncertainty. Gebbia’s work modernizing federal retirement systems has earned bipartisan support, making him a palatable technical lead within a broader team; Armstrong, who worked on Musk’s Twitter deal, is also positioned for a prominent role. Neither can match Musk’s platform or Trump ties, raising questions about the project’s future influence and stability.

The article examines how Romania’s unprecedented cancellation of its presidential runoff—after authorities alleged massive Russian-backed TikTok manipulation benefiting nationalist candidate Calin Georgescu—sparked intense engagement from key MAGA figures and the U.S. right. Romanian fixer Adrian Thiess connected the saga to Trump-world, prompting support and amplification from Donald Trump Jr., Steve Bannon, Brad Parscale, Tucker Carlson, Elon Musk, Alex Jones, and others, who framed the episode as a “stolen election” echoing U.S. narratives. As Romania accused Russia of orchestrating a 25,000-account influence network and crypto-funded operations for Georgescu, the decision to void the first round and redo the vote became a flash point in a broader transatlantic fight over disinformation, platform power (especially TikTok), and the rise of nationalist, anti-establishment politics. The controversy drew in senior U.S. officials like JD Vance and Richard Grenell, alarming European leaders who saw Washington’s right openly backing an anti-NATO figure despite evidence of Kremlin interference. The piece situates Romania’s move within a wider European trend of extraordinary measures against far-right advances, highlighting how online ecosystems and American conservative influencers increasingly shape European political battles.

Omer Shem Tov, captured by Hamas during the Oct. 7, 2023 attack while fleeing the Nova music festival, says rediscovering faith helped him endure 505 days of captivity in Gaza’s tunnels. Raised largely secular, he began praying, keeping kosher as possible, and blessing his food, drawing strength from Psalm 20—the same passage his mother recited daily at home. He describes harsh conditions, prolonged isolation, near-misses from airstrikes, severe hunger, and health struggles, yet a persistent belief he would return. His experience mirrors other hostages who turned to Jewish prayers and purpose, including inspiration from Hersh Goldberg-Polin’s adapted Nietzsche/Frankl maxim about the power of “why.” Released in a February cease-fire, Shem Tov and his mother both underwent spiritual transformations during his captivity, highlighting faith as a survival anchor amid Gaza’s underground ordeal.

Mexican state and federal forces in Chiapas killed four suspected cartel members during a chase near the Guatemalan border, days after five police officers were ambushed and killed in the same area. Authorities say the suspects attacked a routine patrol in Frontera Comalapa; officers returned fire, killing four and seizing vehicles and weapons, including AK-47s. While local media suggested the pursuit may have crossed into Guatemala, both countries’ authorities said the border remains under control and Mexico conducted the operation on its side. The suspects were reportedly linked to the Jalisco New Generation Cartel amid ongoing turf battles with the Sinaloa Cartel. Mexico has seen about 480,000 killings tied largely to criminal violence since 2006.

A Spain-based rescue ship, Astral, operated by NGO Open Arms, saved 54 migrants who had been stranded for three days on an abandoned Mediterranean oil platform after their rubber boat wrecked following departure from Libya. Among them were two women who had recently given birth—one on the platform—and two other young children. Later, Astral encountered another 109 migrants, including four in the water; they were given life jackets and transferred to the Banksy-supported rescue vessel Louise Michel for transport from Lampedusa to a safe port in Sicily. The incident highlights ongoing perilous crossings, with about 23,000 migrants arriving in Italy by sea as of June 1, according to UNHCR.

An American Airlines flight from Philadelphia to Naples had to divert to Rome because the Boeing 787-9 used was too large for Naples’ operational limits. The plane, which typically is a shorter 787-8 on this route, carried 231 passengers and 11 crew. After landing in Rome, passengers were bused about three hours to Naples. American apologized for the disruption.

Hurricane Barbara, the first hurricane of the eastern Pacific season, strengthened from a tropical storm and is located about 115 miles southwest of Manzanillo, Mexico, with 75 mph winds moving northwest at 10 mph. No coastal watches or warnings are in effect, but swells are expected to create life-threatening surf and rip currents, and heavy rain could cause localized flooding in parts of Guerrero, Michoacán, Colima, and Jalisco. A second system, Tropical Storm Cosme, is far offshore and may near hurricane strength before turning northeast and accelerating midweek. The Pacific season began May 15; NOAA forecasts an above-normal Atlantic season with 13–19 named storms, 6–10 hurricanes, and 3–5 major hurricanes.

Authorities closed at least four beaches in Spain’s Valencian region after mysterious white particles washed ashore near Gandia. The material, resembling rice-sized plastic pellets, led officials in Guardamar de la Safor to halt swimming and close beaches in Daimús, Guardamar de la Safor, Bellreguard, and Miramar as a precaution. Samples of the water and substance are being tested. Initial observations suggest the highest concentrations are near the Serpis River’s mouth, hinting at a possible inland source. The affected area lies north of major Costa Blanca tourist spots.

Carlos Alcaraz won his second consecutive French Open men’s title, defeating world No. 1 Jannik Sinner in a five-set epic that lasted a record 5 hours, 29 minutes for a Roland Garros final. Sinner took the first two sets (6-4, 7-6), but Alcaraz mounted a dramatic comeback, winning the third (6-4), saving triple set point to take the fourth in a tiebreak (7-6), and closing out the fifth with a dominant tiebreak. It’s Alcaraz’s fifth Grand Slam title in five finals and extends his head-to-head streak over Sinner to four straight wins. Sinner, who had been on a 20-match Grand Slam win streak and was in his first French Open final, lost his first major final. Alcaraz now holds a 21-1 record on clay this season.

Bulgarian authorities rescued 75 people from two illegal care homes in the east of the country, described by the justice minister as “houses of horrors.” Victims—many elderly—were reportedly beaten, sedated, had their feet tied, and were confined in rooms without bedding or window handles. Nineteen people were removed from one site and 56 from another; five suspects were arrested on charges including kidnapping, violence, and negligence. Testimony included a resident who hadn’t left in four years and another beaten unconscious after trying to escape. The facilities, posing as “health centers” renting rooms for about €400/month, are linked to investigations into property fraud targeting vulnerable people. Bulgaria, criticized for poor elder care infrastructure, has seen growth of illegal centers and past deadly incidents at care homes.

Authorities in Neapolis-Sykies near Thessaloniki uncovered 14 more bodies from Greece’s 1946–53 civil war era in a park renovation site, adding to 33 found earlier this year. The remains, believed to be executed prisoners from the nearby Yedi Kule (Eptapyrgio) prison, were discovered in jumbled pits with separated torsos and heads, suggesting hasty burials. Items like a woman’s shoe and a ring were found with the bodies. Officials say more graves likely lie nearby, possibly under adjacent streets. Despite the site being cleared for development due to the remains being under 100 years old, local authorities prioritized excavation for its historical significance. Families of the executed are calling for DNA testing to identify victims, reflecting ongoing efforts to locate and honor those killed during Greece’s civil war, which claimed tens of thousands of lives, including journalist George Polk.

A 6.3-magnitude, shallow earthquake struck central Colombia at 8:08 a.m. near Paratebueno, about 116 miles southeast of Bogotá. Tremors were felt in Bogotá, Medellín, Cali, and Manizales. No casualties were immediately reported, and early footage from rural areas showed no damage. Several aftershocks between magnitude 4.0 and 4.6 followed. Authorities are assessing impacts, and residents in Bogotá evacuated buildings as a precaution. Colombia sits within the seismically active Pacific Ring of Fire.

President Trump’s new travel ban took effect, barring entry to citizens of 12 countries—Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen—and imposing heightened restrictions on people from seven more (Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, Venezuela) who lack valid visas. Previously issued visas remain valid, but new applications will be denied unless they meet narrow exemptions. The administration cites national security, deficient foreign screening, and visa overstay rates; critics argue the policy targets vulnerable communities and harms diplomatic ties. The ban includes exceptions for certain Afghans with Special Immigrant Visas. Early implementation showed no major airport disruptions.

Sgt. Aaron Cox, 24, of Mabank, Texas, died Thursday near Camp Croft, Hungary, from injuries in a vehicle accident during preparations for Exercise Saber Guardian 25, the U.S. Army said. An infantryman with the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division, Cox joined the Army in 2021 and previously deployed to Poland in 2022. His commander praised him as a strong leader. An investigation is underway. The report also notes a prior March incident in Lithuania in which four U.S. soldiers died when their armored recovery vehicle became submerged during training.

China and the US concluded two days of high-level trade talks in London with an agreement in principle on a framework, which now requires approval from President Xi Jinping and President Donald Trump. Both sides will report the outcomes and the Geneva-negotiated framework to their leaders. US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick said the goal is to reduce the US trade deficit and expand trade, calling this agreement a first step toward implementing that objective.

A Taiwan think tank, the Taipei School of Economics and Political Science Foundation, launched a two-day civilian-led tabletop war game to assess Taiwan’s defense against a potential mainland Chinese attack by 2030. The exercise, billed as the first operational-level simulation run by a civilian institution in Taiwan, includes retired senior military leaders from Taiwan, the US, and Japan—such as former US Joint Chiefs chairman Michael Mullen, ex-US DNI Dennis Blair, and former Japanese Self-Defense Force chiefs. The goal is to identify urgent defense gaps and provide recommendations to the Taiwanese government as part of broader efforts to mobilize non-military resources.

Hong Kong will mark the 28th anniversary of its handover on July 1 with citywide celebrations and perks, including 71,000 free MTR digital tickets distributed via lucky draw, redeemable for designated routes within six months. The Airport Express will be free for children aged 3–11 that day, and half-priced for seniors 60+. Chief Executive John Lee also announced his annual policy address will be moved up to September to accommodate the December 7 Legislative Council election, with public consultation starting next week.

Hungary has become a prime hub for Chinese manufacturing in Europe, driven by low labor costs, generous state subsidies, and a pro-Beijing political stance. A surge of Chinese firms—supported by service providers like Yingke Law Firm’s Budapest office—are setting up factories to access the EU market, with local facilitators helping navigate language, culture, and logistics. This investment wave has outpaced larger European economies, reshaping Hungary into China’s key industrial foothold at the heart of Europe.

Malaysia will impose a 5–10% tax on “discretionary and non-essential” goods and services starting July 1 to boost revenue, targeting items like premium foods (e.g., king crab, cod, truffles), essential oils, racing bicycles, antique art, as well as financial, beauty services, and private education. The government argues the measures won’t significantly raise inflation since they affect luxury consumption, while essentials such as chicken, rice, milk, medicines, pet food, construction materials, and farm inputs remain exempt to protect living costs. The move comes as Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim faces waning popularity, making the politically sensitive tax a tough sell.

The SCMP roundup highlights seven notable Asia stories from the past week: renewed fears of a potential megaquake after a series of tremors off Hokkaido, with experts cautioning against panic; mounting political pressure on Malaysia’s Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim as a sexual harassment suit proceeds, deepening credibility concerns; and scrutiny of Japan’s tax-free tourist shopping system amid allegations of abuse and calls for tighter controls. Other items in the full list cover regional security and political developments, including the Philippines’ efforts to boost air power and broader shifts shaping Asia’s geopolitical and economic landscape.

Advocates say church sex abuse in Hong Kong often surfaces years later due to power imbalances, secrecy, and misused theology that deter victims—especially children—from recognizing and reporting abuse. A retired pastor’s recent arrest over a 1990s case has renewed calls for churches to adopt clear sexual harassment policies and for authorities to review sex offence laws. NGOs note child survivors take an average of 13 years to seek help, as the authority of pastors and confusion in religious contexts make disclosure particularly difficult.

Huawei founder Ren Zhengfei said the company’s Ascend chips trail US rivals by about one generation but can reach state-of-the-art performance through techniques like stacking and clustering, including patented chiplet packaging. In a People’s Daily interview, he argued that China’s AI progress remains strong despite US sanctions, citing advantages such as abundant young talent, robust power generation and transmission, and a highly developed communications network, alongside a growing ecosystem of open-source software. His remarks come as Washington tightens restrictions, with new guidance suggesting Ascend chip use anywhere could violate US export controls. Ren also noted the US has overstated Huawei’s achievements and that Huawei is only one among many Chinese chipmakers.

US and Chinese officials completed Day 1 of London negotiations without a deal but signaled potential compromises. The US hinted it could ease certain export controls—covering jet engines, advanced chip design software, and ethane—in exchange for greater Chinese shipments of rare earth minerals to the US. A White House economic official suggested immediate reciprocal steps could follow a handshake, with detailed issues negotiated afterward. No formal statements were issued, and talks are set to continue, aiming to de-escalate tensions that have rattled global markets.

China’s two next-generation stealth fighters, the Chengdu J-36 and Shenyang J-50, first appeared unexpectedly on December 26 last year, prompting global attention. In the months since, sightings, photos, and witness reports have revealed partial details but no official confirmation of key specifications. The J-36, developed by Chengdu, is informally named based on a prototype serial “36011” and nicknamed the “Ginkgo leaf” for its diamond-like, tailless delta-wing shape. Its design emphasizes stealth and high-speed efficiency, featuring trailing-edge control surfaces and split flaps near the wingtips to compensate for maneuverability lost by omitting a tail. These aerodynamic choices aim to minimize drag and radar signature. While the J-50 from Shenyang has also been observed, fewer concrete details are public. Overall, both platforms appear to prioritize stealth, speed, and advanced aerodynamics, but many aspects—engines, avionics, roles, and timelines—remain unconfirmed.

Dozens of activists protested in Nairobi after the death of 31-year-old Albert Omondi Ojwang in police custody. Ojwang, reportedly a teacher and blogger, was arrested in western Kenya over an X post allegedly tarnishing Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat and transferred to Nairobi. Police say he fatally injured himself by hitting a cell wall, but the family’s lawyer reports extensive injuries inconsistent with a single impact. Kenya’s Independent Policing Oversight Authority has opened an inquiry, and senior officers at Nairobi’s Central Police Station have been interdicted pending investigation. Amnesty International called the death “very suspicious” and criticized the long transfer instead of local booking. The case comes amid broader concerns over treatment of government critics in Kenya.

Iran has expanded a dog-walking ban from Tehran to at least 18 cities, also prohibiting transporting dogs in vehicles, citing public order and health concerns. While there’s no national law banning dog ownership, local prosecutors and police enforce restrictions, and violators risk legal action and confiscation of pets. Authorities deem pet dogs un-Islamic and “impure,” reflecting long-standing efforts since the 1979 revolution to curb Western cultural influence. Despite patchy enforcement and past failed legislative attempts, dog ownership—especially among youth—continues to grow as a form of quiet resistance to Iran’s restrictive social norms. Critics say police should prioritize public safety over targeting pet owners.

Israel’s military says it has found and identified the body of Mohammed Sinwar, Hamas’s military leader in Gaza, in a tunnel beneath the European Hospital in Khan Younis. The IDF says DNA confirmed the identity and that the body was discovered alongside Rafah Brigade commander Mohammad Sabaneh and other unidentified remains, with items linked to both men. Hamas has not confirmed Sinwar’s death, which the Hamas-run civil defense said resulted from a 13 May air strike that killed 28 people. Israel showcased the tunnel to journalists as evidence of Hamas using hospitals for military purposes—a claim hospitals in Gaza and Hamas deny and which remains difficult to independently verify. The discovery comes amid ongoing Israeli operations aimed at destroying Hamas and freeing remaining hostages following the 7 October 2023 attacks.

Italy’s referendum on easing citizenship rules and boosting workers’ rights was declared invalid due to low turnout of about 30%, far below the 50% needed. The vote included a proposal to cut residency for citizenship from 10 to five years. Backed by civil groups and unions, it faced opposition and discouragement from Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s government; Meloni called current laws “very open” and boycotted voting. Turnout was especially low in southern regions like Sicily and Calabria. The failure is seen as a setback for the opposition, while Meloni’s party celebrated. The result has sparked calls to raise the signature threshold for future referendums, as many in Italy historically fail to meet turnout requirements.

Palestinians reported being shot at near a Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) aid site in Rafah’s Tal al-Sultan, alleging fire from both Palestinian gunmen—described as masked and operating near Israeli forces—and Israeli troops. Gaza’s health ministry said six were killed and 99 injured at aid collection areas. The Israeli military said it is examining the reports. GHF stated the Tal al-Sultan site was closed and claimed two other sites operated without incident, asserting it has delivered over 11 million meals safely. Since GHF began distributions on 26 May, frequent deadly incidents have occurred near its centers, with Israel denying firing on civilians at sites but acknowledging shooting at “suspects.” The controversy comes after Israel confirmed arming anti-Hamas clans in Gaza. UN agencies refuse to work with GHF, citing neutrality concerns, as Gaza faces severe hunger amid ongoing conflict; Gaza’s health ministry reports at least 54,927 deaths since October 2023.

US Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a longtime vaccine skeptic, dismissed all 17 members of the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), citing conflicts of interest and a “pro-industry orthodoxy” undermining public trust. In a Wall Street Journal editorial, he argued many members received substantial pharmaceutical funding and said the move aims to ensure the “safest vaccines possible.” The decision contradicts assurances he reportedly gave during confirmation that ACIP would remain unchanged and drew criticism from medical leaders, including the American Medical Association, who warned it could harm vaccination efforts amid outbreaks and declining childhood immunization rates. Eight current members were appointed at the end of the Biden administration. Kennedy did not name replacements; ACIP was set to vote on multiple vaccine recommendations later in June.

Sly Stone, born Sylvester Stewart, the pioneering leader of Sly and the Family Stone, has died at 82 after a long battle with COPD. A former San Francisco radio DJ, he fused funk, rock, soul, and psychedelia, achieving major success with hits like It’s a Family Affair and If You Want Me to Stay. The band, which included his siblings, performed at Woodstock and on TV shows like Soul Train, and Stone’s flamboyant style became iconic. His tumultuous 1970s included internal band strife and drug issues, leading to the group’s decline, though he made notable returns such as a 2006 Grammys appearance. His family hailed him as a groundbreaking pioneer who reshaped popular music.

South Korea earned its first Tony Awards with the Broadway musical Maybe Happy Ending, which won six awards including Best Musical. The show, about a romance between two humanoid robots in Seoul, also won Best Original Score and Best Book for South Korean lyricist Hue Park and American composer Will Aronson, and Best Lead Actor for Darren Criss. Originally premiering in Seoul in 2016, the musical has been performed in both Korean and English and retained Korean cultural elements in its Broadway run. The wins cement South Korea’s expanding cultural influence, adding to prior global accolades like Parasite’s Oscars, Squid Game’s Emmys, and Sumi Jo’s Grammy.

A public feud between President Trump and Elon Musk has intensified uncertainty over NASA’s future amid proposed White House budget cuts that would slash science funding by nearly half and potentially end about 40 missions. Trump’s threat to pull federal contracts from SpaceX jeopardizes ISS resupply and crew transport and raises risks for future Moon and Mars plans that rely on SpaceX’s Starship. The proposals would phase out NASA’s costly SLS rocket in favor of private alternatives like Starship and Blue Origin’s New Glenn, despite their developmental challenges. Critics warn of a “biggest crisis ever” for the US space program, citing a chilling effect on long-term planning, risks to international collaborations (including Mars Sample Return and Europe’s Rosalind Franklin rover), and major reductions in Earth observation critical for climate monitoring. While some see a clearer focus on human exploration, experts fear lasting damage if Congress fails to block cuts or if political gridlock enacts them by default. Europe may seek more autonomy but faces near-term setbacks if NASA scales back.

The article reports that President Trump announced travel restrictions on nationals from 10 African countries, citing U.S. national security concerns after a Boulder terror attack by an Egyptian visa overstayer. The administration argues the ban targets countries with terrorist havens, instability, poor cooperation on vetting, and high U.S. visa overstay rates. Examples include Somalia (ISIS and al-Shabaab presence), Libya (lack of central authority for document verification), Sudan (civil war and high overstay), Eritrea (refusal to accept deportees and high overstay), and Chad (growing ties to Russia and high overstay). Other countries with partial restrictions include Equatorial Guinea, Republic of the Congo, Sierra Leone, Togo, and Burundi, largely due to high overstay rates and weak governance. Supporters frame the move as a security imperative; critics label it a renewed “Muslim ban.” Chad announced reciprocal visa suspensions for U.S. citizens.

At the 81st anniversary of D-Day at the American cemetery in Normandy, WWII veterans and officials reflected on the invasion’s sacrifice and lessons. Centenarian veterans, including 102-year-old D-Day survivor Jake Larson, shared memories and cautioned about the realities of war, with some questioning whether humanity has learned enough from the past. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth emphasized the enduring importance of alliances, noting “America first” does not mean “America alone.” Large crowds gathered to honor the fallen and recognize the continuing relevance of D-Day’s legacy.

Israeli forces recovered the body of Thai national Natthapong Pinta, abducted from Kibbutz Nir Oz on Oct. 7, 2023, and killed in captivity by the Gaza-based Kataeb al-Mujahideen. His remains were retrieved in a joint IDF–ISA operation in Rafah and returned to Israel. Israeli officials offered condolences, and the Hostages and Missing Families Forum said the recovery provides crucial closure for his family. According to the report, 55 hostages remain in Gaza, 33 confirmed dead and at least 20 believed alive.

Portuguese and German police conducted a renewed search in Praia da Luz for clues in Madeleine McCann’s 2007 disappearance, likely prompted by a trusted inside tip, according to rescue expert Bryan Stern. The operation, requested by German authorities, focused on derelict houses, wells, and reservoirs and likely employed ground-penetrating technology and DNA forensics. Christian Brueckner, named the prime suspect in 2020, denies involvement and is nearing release from a seven-year sentence for a separate rape. Officials haven’t disclosed whether the latest search produced significant evidence, and McCann’s parents did not comment.

President Trump said Iran’s counter-proposal in ongoing nuclear talks is “not acceptable,” citing Tehran’s insistence on uranium enrichment. He confirmed speaking with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and emphasized seeking a deal to avoid conflict, though outcomes are uncertain. The IAEA warned it cannot verify Iran’s program as peaceful, citing blocked access, site sanitization, and a sharp rise in 60%-enriched uranium—now enough to be a technical step from multiple warheads. Iran’s leadership has rejected a U.S. proposal, claims it lacked sanctions relief, and plans to submit its own “reasonable” plan via Oman. Negotiations continue amid tight-lipped U.S. details and escalating proliferation concerns.

A British soldier from the British Army Training Unit Kenya (Batuk) has been arrested on suspicion of raping a woman in Nanyuki last month, following a visit by soldiers to a local bar. The Defence Serious Crime Command is investigating, and military police have questioned the bar owner and security staff. The Ministry of Defence confirmed the arrest but declined further comment, reiterating zero tolerance for unacceptable behavior and noting a broader service inquiry into conduct in Kenya. The case comes amid ongoing scrutiny of British troops in Nanyuki, where 21-year-old Agnes Wanjiru was found murdered in 2012, a case still linked to allegations against a British soldier. The UK has an agreement allowing up to six battalions a year to train in Kenya.

Elon Musk’s father, Errol Musk, says Elon and President Donald Trump will reconcile after their public falling out, likening it to a temporary argument. The rift followed Musk calling Trump’s tax and spending bill a “disgusting abomination” and posting (then deleting) an unsubstantiated claim that Trump appears in Jeffrey Epstein-related files. Errol Musk believes the dispute stems from fiscal principles and stress, expects a quick return to “normal footing,” and says Elon texted they’re “sorting it out.” Trump, however, told NBC he doesn’t plan to make up with Musk. Errol also noted Elon’s interest in cooperating with Russia on space despite tensions over potential U.S. contract cancellations.

A UNFPA survey of over 14,000 people in 14 countries finds that declining birth rates reflect lack of choice, not desire: many want more children but face barriers. Two in five over-50s say they had fewer children than desired. Over half cite financial constraints (housing, childcare, job security); a quarter cite health issues; one fifth cite global anxieties (climate, wars, pandemics). Obstacles vary by country: financial limits are prominent in South Korea; Sweden’s generous leave lessens financial concerns but time/energy demands and climate worries still weigh. Fertility issues are more common in the US than Mexico. Unintended pregnancies are widespread—about one third overall, and roughly half in Morocco and South Africa—coexisting with barriers to desired births, showing pervasive misalignment between intentions and outcomes. The report warns against treating fertility as a policy “faucet,” noting countries that shifted from suppressing to promoting births now sit below replacement. It calls for sustained, choice-enhancing measures: paid family leave, affordable fertility and childcare, and supportive social norms and partners.

A Syrian contractor uncovered a 1,500-year-old Byzantine underground tomb complex in Maarat al-Numan, Idlib province, while clearing rubble from a destroyed home. Authorities secured the site, which features two burial chambers with six stone tombs each and crosses etched on a column. Artifacts like pottery and glass helped date it to the Byzantine era. Local officials note Idlib’s rich archaeological heritage, and residents hope preserving the find will revive tourism and the economy following Assad’s regime collapse.

Top US and Chinese officials are meeting in London to advance a truce in their trade war, building on a Geneva deal that temporarily cut punitive tariffs for 90 days. The talks follow a Trump–Xi call in which China agreed to resume rare earth shipments; Boeing has also restarted plane deliveries to China. The US calls negotiations “very far advanced,” while China urges the US to avoid further harm to the global economy. The trade dispute has slowed growth, with US Q1 weakness and deepening deflation pressures in China; Chinese exports to the US fell 34.5% in May. The UK, hosting the undisclosed-venue talks, frames them as support for free trade.

Jair Bolsonaro denied orchestrating a coup but admitted in Brazil’s supreme court that he discussed “alternative” constitutional measures to remain in power after losing the 2022 election to Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. He said options considered included deploying the military and suspending civil liberties, but claimed they were never pursued due to lack of support. Bolsonaro apologized to Justice Alexandre de Moraes for previously alleging he took bribes to rig the election, calling it rhetoric. The trial targets eight alleged leaders of the attempted coup, including former ministers and top military figures, marking the first time high-ranking officers face such charges since Brazil’s dictatorship. Key witness Lt Col Mauro Cid testified Bolsonaro edited a draft decree to arrest authorities and sought to find evidence of voting fraud to spur military action. A verdict is expected in the second half of the year.

BTS members RM and V have been discharged after completing 18 months of mandatory military service in South Korea, greeted by about 200 fans, including international visitors. They enlisted in December 2023; Jin and J-Hope were discharged in 2024, while Jimin and Jungkook are set to be discharged Wednesday. Suga is serving as a social service agent and will be released later this month. All seven members plan to reunite in 2025. The article notes South Korea’s conscription rules, the lack of exemptions for K-pop idols, and the law that allowed BTS to delay enlistment until age 30.

Two groups representing over 300 environmental lawyers—Lawyers for Climate Action NZ and the Environmental Law Initiative—have filed a judicial review against New Zealand’s emissions reduction plan, calling it “dangerously inadequate.” They argue the government abandoned effective policies without proper public consultation and is over-relying on high-risk offsets like large-scale pine forestry and carbon capture, which may not deliver durable emissions cuts. While the government claims it’s on track to 2030 and for long-term goals, experts warn the strategy is shortsighted and jeopardizes future targets. The case, believed to be the first globally to challenge forestry-based offsets, comes amid broader government moves to expand oil, gas, and mining and cut climate and conservation funding. The Greens back the lawsuit; the climate minister declined comment due to ongoing proceedings. The plaintiffs seek a more robust, transparent plan aligned with New Zealand’s zero-carbon law.

China will require all tertiary hospitals to offer epidural anesthesia for childbirth by the end of 2025 and secondary hospitals by 2027, aiming to create a more “fertility-friendly” environment amid declining birth rates. Currently, only about 30% of women in China receive pain relief during labor, far below rates in developed countries. The National Health Commission says expanded access will improve comfort and safety, while some provinces are adding childbirth anesthesia to insurance coverage. Broader incentives, such as extended marriage and maternity leave, are also being introduced to encourage marriage and childbearing.

Pakistani TikTok star Sana Yousaf, 17, was shot dead in Islamabad a day after posting her birthday video. Police detained a 22-year-old man, alleging he stalked her and killed her after she ignored his advances. Her death, and the celebratory victim‑blaming comments that followed online, have ignited national outrage and fear among women who feel unsafe both on the internet and in public. Rights groups say a culture of impunity and inadequate laws enable technology‑facilitated gender-based violence, which frequently spills into real life. Activists highlight a broader crisis of masculinity and call for education of boys, stronger enforcement against online harassment, and leadership prioritizing hate speech and digital abuse. Protests and debate come amid global concerns about femicide and online misogyny.

Six months after Bashar al-Assad’s ouster, Syria remains unstable with recurring violence, especially against minorities like Druze and Alawites. The new government led by President Ahmad al-Sharaa is struggling to assert a monopoly on force amid a landscape of local militias, former rebels, and foreign fighters. Efforts to rebuild security institutions—largely staffed by ex-combatants under Interior Minister Anas Khattab—are hampered by low public trust, fragmented authority, and a legacy of fear and trauma. Sporadic massacres and clashes, such as in Damascus’s Druze-majority Jaramana and coastal Alawite areas, underline the fragility of order and the challenge of transforming fighters into professional police while reshaping societal attitudes shaped by decades of Baathist rule.