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Investigators have recovered the cockpit voice recorder from the Air India Boeing 787-8 that crashed seconds after take-off from Ahmedabad, killing at least 270 people. The flight data recorder was found earlier; together the devices will help reconstruct the crash’s final moments. India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau is leading the probe with support from the US NTSB, Boeing, and the FAA. A government committee will deliver a preliminary report within three months and propose new safety procedures. Meanwhile, authorities continue DNA identification of victims; over 90 have been identified and 47 bodies released, while families await confirmation amid a slow, painstaking process.

A California physician, Dr Salvador Plasencia, will plead guilty to four counts of distributing ketamine linked to Matthew Perry’s fatal overdose. Prosecutors say Plasencia injected Perry with ketamine at his home and in a parking lot, taught Perry’s assistant to administer it, and sold additional vials and supplies between late September and mid-October 2023. Texts from another doctor who already pleaded guilty indicate Plasencia discussed how much Perry would pay and called him a “moron.” Plasencia faces up to 40 years in prison and is among five people charged in an alleged underground network supplying Perry, who was also receiving legally prescribed ketamine for depression.

Zambia’s former president Edgar Lungu, who died in South Africa at 68, will receive a state funeral after his family and the government resolved a dispute over his wishes to exclude President Hakainde Hichilema. The agreement sets out that Lungu’s body will be flown to Lusaka on Wednesday, receive full military honors, lie in state at his residence, and be available for public viewing for three days at a conference center. A state funeral will be held on Sunday 22 June, with burial the next day at Embassy Park. The family apologized for the delay, while the government appealed for unity. Lungu, who led Zambia from 2015 to 2021 and remained an influential critic after losing to Hichilema, was barred last year from running again by the Constitutional Court.

A BBC investigation reports that Bassam al Hassan, a former Syrian Republican Guard commander tied to the National Defence Forces—the group found to have held US journalist Austin Tice after his 2012 abduction—told US officials that then-President Bashar al-Assad ordered Tice’s execution and that the order was carried out. Al Hassan allegedly provided potential burial sites, which US investigators are working to verify. Western intelligence sources are skeptical Assad would issue such a direct order. Tice’s mother, Debra, doubts Al Hassan’s account and maintains her belief that her son is alive. Successive US administrations have publicly said they believe Tice survived, though without direct evidence.

Armed men on motorcycles stormed the village hall in San Mateo Piñas, Oaxaca, killing Mayor Lilia Gema García Soto and wounding two municipal police; a local official meeting with her, Eli García Ramírez, was also targeted. Authorities are investigating motives amid a broader pattern of criminal gangs targeting local politicians. The attackers remain at large, with federal agents deployed to assist the search. García Soto is the second mayor killed in Oaxaca this year, reflecting rising violence against local officials across Mexico.

Authorities say Vance Luther Boelter, 57, accused of killing Minnesota Democratic lawmaker Melissa Hortman and her husband and wounding State Sen. John Hoffman and his wife, also attempted to target two additional lawmakers. Disguised as a police officer with a realistic mask, Boelter allegedly shot the Hoffmans multiple times before going to other lawmakers’ homes; two were not present. He then allegedly killed the Hortmans. Police later found him after a two-day manhunt. Officials say he conducted surveillance, carried multiple firearms and ammunition, and had a list of over 45 officials, suggesting a larger planned attack that officers disrupted. Boelter faces six federal charges, including murder and firearms offenses that could carry the death penalty, as well as state murder and attempted murder charges. He is due back in court on 27 June. Officials called the case a chilling example of rising violent political extremism.

A Reuters Institute report finds social media and video platforms are now the top news source in the US (54%), surpassing TV (50%) and news sites/apps (48%). Personality-driven content is rising rapidly, with Joe Rogan reaching 22% of Americans in a week. Politicians increasingly favor friendly online hosts, raising concerns about accountability and misinformation; influencers are seen as a major source of false information by 47% globally, tied with politicians. X’s news use is stable or growing, especially among right-leaning users since Elon Musk’s takeover, while rivals like Threads and Bluesky have minimal reach. TikTok is the fastest-growing news platform (17%), AI chatbots for news are gaining traction—especially among under-25s—but most people believe AI will reduce transparency and trust. Despite shifts, trusted news brands remain valued. The study surveyed nearly 100,000 people in 48 countries.

Protests in Barcelona highlight growing local backlash against mass tourism’s impacts on housing affordability and city life. Demonstrators accuse short-term rentals and rising numbers of visitors, cruise ships, and higher-paid “digital nomads” of driving up rents and prices, pushing residents out. Personal cases include an 80-year-old evicted tenant and a longtime renter resisting displacement. In response, Barcelona plans to ban all tourist short-term rentals by 2028, affecting 10,000 licences. Some landlords argue they’re scapegoated, blaming mobile workers and warning they’ll sell rather than rent long-term under price caps. Similar anti-overtourism protests are spreading across Southern Europe as Spain anticipates record visitor numbers.

A 57-year-old Tasmanian police officer was shot dead while serving a court-approved warrant to repossess a home at a rural property in North Motton near Ulverstone. A second officer returned fire, injuring the suspect’s hand; the suspect surrendered and was treated in hospital. Police say there is no ongoing threat to the public. The fallen officer, a 25-year veteran, was praised as dependable; his name has not been released pending family notification. An investigation is underway, and support is being provided to those affected. Tasmania’s premier called the incident a heartbreaking tragedy. Deadly shootings remain rare in Australia due to strict gun laws introduced after the 1996 Port Arthur massacre.

President Trump ordered federal agencies, including ICE and the DEA, to expand migrant detentions and deportations, targeting cities like Los Angeles, Chicago, and New York, and focusing on sanctuary cities. Framed as delivering the “largest mass deportation programme in history,” the directive follows intensified nationwide protests against immigration raids since 6 June, including the “No Kings” demonstrations. Despite legal challenges and criticism over deploying the military to address protests, Trump pledged full administrative support for the effort. The order came a day after the administration reportedly paused raids on certain workplaces, even as public opposition continues to grow.

The Trump Organization plans to launch a Trump-branded mobile service and a gold-colored smartphone priced at $499, with monthly service at $47.45. The company claims the phone will be “built in the United States,” though experts say fully U.S.-made smartphones are virtually impossible and suggest assembly with imported parts is more likely. Ethics groups warn of potential conflicts of interest and influence-buying given Donald Trump’s political role. Details on the service partner and manufacturing are sparse. The move extends Trump’s branding strategy amid a surge in his reported income and net worth, entering a U.S. mobile market dominated by major carriers and competitive MVNOs.

President Trump signed an executive order activating parts of a UK-US tariff pact, cutting US import tariffs on up to 100,000 UK-made cars to 10% from 25% and removing some aerospace tariffs. The move, praised by Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer as a significant step, stops short of resolving steel and aluminium duties, with details on those still pending. The UK says it will push toward 0% tariffs on core steel products. The agreement also involves UK commitments on US beef and ethanol quotas, though it is not a full free-trade deal and remains narrower than previously outlined terms. Industry groups welcomed the car tariff relief, while UK opposition leaders criticized the pact as limited.

The article explores how AI’s pattern-recognition powers are enabling it to perceive and interpret human biology and behavior beyond human ability. It details advances in facial and eye-tracking that infer emotions, attention, and even credibility; medical applications that detect subtle signals in imaging, blood, and immune-receptor DNA to diagnose cancers, cardiovascular issues, and autoimmune diseases earlier and more accurately; biomechanics tools that optimize training, prosthetics, crowd monitoring, and revolutionize animation with realistic, physics-aware motion; and neuroscience breakthroughs that decode brain activity to reconstruct viewed images and assist patients who’ve lost speech. While highlighting impressive accuracy and speed, it underscores AI’s growing capacity to analyze our bodies and minds in ways we cannot see ourselves.

NYC Comptroller and mayoral candidate Brad Lander was arrested by ICE agents at the city’s immigration courthouse after he tried to escort a migrant away from arrest and demanded to see a judicial warrant. Videos show agents prying Lander from the migrant, handcuffing him, and detaining him for several hours before his release. DHS said Lander assaulted and impeded an officer; no formal charges had been filed as of the afternoon, though federal prosecutors are investigating. The incident comes amid heightened ICE activity and follows recent clashes between federal agents and Democratic officials nationwide. With the Democratic mayoral primary a week away, Lander’s arrest drew sharp partisan reactions: Democrats, including Gov. Kathy Hochul, Andrew Cuomo, and Zohran Mamdani, condemned ICE’s actions, while Republicans called it performative. Lander denied assault and framed his actions as protecting immigrants, aligning with his campaign emphasis on defending sanctuary policies.

China is redirecting a surge of exports to Europe, Southeast Asia, and Latin America as U.S. tariffs curb access to its largest market, creating a new global “China shock.” Fueled by state support and a weak domestic economy after a property bust, Beijing has expanded both advanced manufacturing (like EVs and solar) and low-cost goods, lifting its global market share and pushing its trade surplus near $500 billion year-to-date. The influx is straining local industries from Germany to Indonesia, Thailand, and Brazil, prompting job losses and calls for protection. Countries face a dilemma: accept industrial hollowing or impose targeted barriers and risk geopolitical fallout with China and the U.S. Supply chains are increasingly splitting along geopolitical lines.

Ten years after Donald Trump entered politics, he remains fundamentally the same—attention-seeking, credit-obsessed, and driven by payback—but is now more empowered and disciplined in wielding government power. Maggie Haberman explains that experiences from his first term, the Russia investigation, time out of office, indictments, a conviction, and assassination attempts hardened his approach. Bolstered by a Supreme Court ruling granting broad immunity for official acts and a trusted chief of staff, Susie Wiles, Trump is moving faster and more boldly to expand executive authority, sideline oversight, and use the Justice Department as a personal instrument. He has fewer public events, shows improvisational policymaking (e.g., tariff swings, deportation carve-outs), and has operationalized retribution, aligning the government and much of the GOP with his version of reality. Haberman notes that absent the pandemic’s interruption, much of his current agenda mirrors moves he began in 2020. The piece also flags a viral incident suggesting a new, aggressive phase in immigration enforcement.

Britain’s Parliament voted 370–137 to decriminalize women in England and Wales for ending their own pregnancies, preventing investigations and prosecutions under 19th-century criminal laws. The change does not alter the 24-week legal limit set by the 1967 Abortion Act nor decriminalize medical professionals who unlawfully assist abortions; it reframes abortion as a healthcare matter for women rather than a criminal issue. An alternative proposal to mandate in-person consultations for abortion pills was rejected. The move, backed by major medical bodies, follows concerns over recent prosecutions and contrasts with tightening abortion laws in parts of the United States. Opponents warn it could lead to pressure to extend time limits.

Russia said North Korea will send 5,000 construction workers and 1,000 sappers to help rebuild and de-mine Russia’s Kursk region, deepening bilateral ties despite U.N. sanctions that ban North Korean overseas labor. Sergei Shoigu announced the plan after meeting Kim Jong-un in Pyongyang, framing it as “fraternal aid.” South Korea condemned the move as illegal and warned it violates sanctions; Seoul has reported a rising number of North Korean laborers in Russia. The arrangement follows reports of North Korean troops aiding Russian forces in Kursk and broader exchanges that may include Russian fuel, food, and military tech for North Korean support. Moscow also floated resuming direct flights and building memorials honoring North Korean war dead in Kursk.

Former President Barack Obama reemerged publicly in Hartford, warning the U.S. is “dangerously close” to normalizing autocratic behavior, citing erosion of the rule of law, judicial independence, press freedom, and respect for facts. Without naming Donald Trump, he criticized the current administration’s weak commitment to democratic norms and compared the trajectory to Hungary under Viktor Orban. Obama urged institutions—especially universities, law firms, and businesses—to resist political intimidation, and challenged affluent liberals to accept real costs for their principles. He avoided direct commentary on escalating crises, including potential U.S. military action against Iran and recent threats and violence against Democrats, reflecting his strategy to conserve his political voice. While still a powerful draw for donors and campaigns, Obama’s influence has waned among younger voters and progressives. He continues advising Democrats privately, plans fundraising and campaign support, and remains active with his memoir, production company, and the forthcoming Obama Presidential Center.

Russia launched one of its deadliest recent overnight assaults on Kyiv, killing at least 14 and injuring over 40, according to local authorities. Drones and missiles struck more than a dozen sites, severely damaging residential buildings and leaving some victims possibly trapped under rubble. Air raid sirens lasted nearly 10 hours as Ukraine’s defenses tried to repel waves of drones followed by missiles. The attack, part of a stepped-up Russian campaign to overwhelm air defenses, coincided with the G7 summit in Canada, where President Zelensky sought tougher sanctions and more aid. Kyiv’s mayor said a 62-year-old U.S. citizen was found dead in the Solomianskyi district, though the link to the strikes was unclear. Search and rescue operations continued.

The Senate passed the bipartisan GENIUS Act, creating a federal regulatory framework for stablecoins and delivering a major win for the crypto industry. The 68-30 vote marks the chamber’s first approval of significant crypto legislation, reflecting a shifting Washington landscape under Republican control and a friendlier White House stance. Eighteen Democrats joined most Republicans in support, despite strong opposition from figures like Senators Elizabeth Warren and Chuck Schumer, who argued the bill’s oversight is too weak and lacks anti-corruption provisions to prevent President Trump and his family from profiting from crypto. Backers say the bill will modernize payments, bolster demand for U.S. Treasuries, and reinforce dollar dominance, encouraging traditional finance participation. Crypto firms broadly endorsed the measure. Attempts to add stricter safeguards—such as banning public officials and their families from stablecoin ventures—were blocked, and some Republicans objected to insufficient limits on big tech involvement. The bill still requires House approval and the president’s signature.

The U.K. will require police to record the ethnicity and nationality of all suspects in child sexual abuse and exploitation cases, implementing recommendations from a review by Louise Casey into grooming gangs. The government will also change the law so any adult engaging in penetrative sex with a child under 16 is charged with rape and will launch a national inquiry that could take three years. Casey found men of Asian and Pakistani heritage were disproportionately represented in three examined areas but said nationwide data is insufficient, partly because ethnicity is unrecorded for two-thirds of perpetrators. The review criticizes agencies for avoiding the topic over fears of racism, leaving victims failed and data gaps exploited for political ends. Advocates and MPs warn reforms must be matched by resources and accountability, noting systemic prosecution failures in sexual offense cases.

Scott Flansburg, the “Human Calculator” and Herkimer, N.Y. native, is leading a campaign to credit his hometown—not Springfield, Mass.—as basketball’s birthplace. Inspired by a 1952 book by Frank J. Basloe, Flansburg argues that a teenager named Lambert Will invented the game in late 1890 at a Herkimer general store, with early games played at the local YMCA in early 1891—months before James Naismith’s documented rules in December 1891. While Springfield’s Hall of Fame won’t engage and mainstream history still credits Naismith, Flansburg has formed the Herkimer 9 Foundation to build a museum and events center to revive the town and elevate its claim. He’s gathered local support and historical breadcrumbs from regional archives, asserting at minimum that Central New York played a pivotal role in basketball’s early evolution, despite skepticism and past backlash from Naismith loyalists.

Israel, while attacking Iran’s nuclear program, maintains a long-standing, undeclared nuclear arsenal it neither confirms nor denies. Experts estimate Israel holds at least 90 warheads with delivery by aircraft, submarines, and missiles, and enough fissile material for more. It is not a signatory to the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty and is outside the U.S. nuclear umbrella, reflecting its independent deterrent strategy. Israel’s program originated in the 1950s, centered at the secretive Dimona site, believed to include plutonium production. The IAEA has no inspection agreement for Dimona, and U.S. visits ceased decades ago. Recent satellite imagery suggests modernization and possible reactor upgrades to boost plutonium output. Israel has never used nuclear weapons; alleged tests, including the disputed 1979 “Vela incident,” remain unproven. The government frames the arsenal as a last-resort safeguard of national survival.

China’s newest and most advanced aircraft carrier, the Fujian, appears close to commissioning, according to new satellite images showing 36 aircraft positions marked on its deck—more than on China’s two existing carriers. State media also hinted at an impending “three-carrier era.” A military analyst said the markings indicate the ship is preparing for commission, after which it would enter trial service to test aircraft operations and carrier group coordination. Additional sea trials may occur before full service, potentially by year-end.

China’s Commercial Aircraft Corporation (Comac) secured Western components for its in-development C929 widebody jet, signing a memorandum of understanding with France’s Safran for brake controls, ice detection, tyre pressure, and on-board oxygen systems, and a separate deal with U.S.-based Crane Aerospace for cabin door sensors. The agreements, announced during the Paris Air Show, come despite strained supply chains and U.S. export controls, and underscore Comac’s push to compete with Airbus and Boeing with a jet akin to the A350 and 787.

Chinese researchers achieved a 1 Gbps laser downlink from a geostationary satellite ~36,000 km above Earth using just a 2-watt laser—about five times faster than typical Starlink speeds. The main challenge, atmospheric turbulence, was overcome by combining adaptive optics (to correct wavefront distortions) with mode diversity reception (to capture scattered signal modes), a synergy they call AO-MDR. The demonstration suggests high-throughput, long-distance space-to-Earth optical communications are feasible even under strong turbulence, enabling near-instant transmission of large data (e.g., HD movies) across continents.

Japan’s veterinary association has warned members after a veterinarian in Mie prefecture died from suspected animal-to-human transmission of severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS), a tick-borne virus with no cure. The vet developed symptoms after treating a cat, though no tick bite was found and the cat’s owner and clinic staff show no symptoms. Authorities are investigating the transmission route. The National Institute of Infectious Diseases issued detailed guidance to veterinarians on identifying infected animals, preventing tick bites, handling exposure to animal fluids, and safely disposing of animal remains. The case heightens concern over SFTS risks beyond traditional tick transmission.

Malaysia will proceed in July with cutting blanket petrol subsidies despite public backlash and inflation fears. PM Anwar Ibrahim argues the move is needed to curb the subsidy bill and redirect savings to low-income groups and public services like education and healthcare. Critics warn paying market fuel prices could spur inflation in a car‑dependent country and hurt the government politically ahead of upcoming elections. Anwar says most Malaysians using subsidised RON95 will not be adversely affected and dismisses opposition criticism as political posturing.

China showcased a scale model of its J-35A, a land-based variant of its fifth-generation J-35 fighter, at the Paris Air Show—the first overseas display of the J-35A. Developed by Shenyang Aircraft Corporation and first flown reportedly in September 2023, the J-35A follows China’s J-20, which remains export-restricted but was also displayed. While Europe is unlikely to buy Chinese military aircraft due to US sensitivities, China is targeting developing markets, with rising sales in the Middle East and South Asia. The J-35 previously appeared in Abu Dhabi, but Paris marks its European debut.

SCMP highlights seven notable Asia stories from the past week: a lone survivor was found after Air India flight AI171 crashed near Ahmedabad, killing over 240; an exposé on “mole people” spotlighted homeless Filipinos living in underground culverts in Makati; and China aided Malaysia in dismantling Tedy Teow’s cross-border scam network, with authorities seizing about US$900 million. The roundup underscores pressing regional issues from aviation disasters to urban poverty and transnational financial crime.

A public feud between US President Donald Trump and Elon Musk over a tax and spending bill—featuring threats, accusations, and talk of cutting subsidies—has reinforced Beijing’s view of Trump as unpredictable and transactional. Despite the spat cooling, Chinese analysts say the episode will make China more cautious in negotiations and complicate decisions about a potential leaders’ summit, as it underscores concerns that Trump may reverse positions and use pressure tactics to extract concessions.

China is promoting “emergent” jobs—especially in culture and tourism—to absorb youth labor, exemplified by Xi’an’s booming hanfu-related services (costume rental, makeup, photography) fueled by government-backed traditional culture tourism. Xi’an saw 306 million trips and 376 billion yuan in tourism revenue last year, with over 3,000 hanfu shops and more than 30% of China’s market share. While these roles expand opportunities and entrepreneurship, they also bring intensified competition and questions about stability and long-term career prospects for young people.

Beijing’s top official for Hong Kong affairs, Xia Baolong, will make a five-day visit to Hong Kong starting Wednesday. He is set to meet university leaders and educators on Thursday to discuss boosting Hong Kong’s role in China’s tech self-reliance and talent retention. Xia will attend a Department of Justice forum on Saturday marking the fifth anniversary of the national security law, underscoring its importance, and will leave on Sunday, Chief Executive John Lee said.

An Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner bound for New Delhi returned to Hong Kong shortly after takeoff due to a midair technical issue and landed safely. The incident occurred four days after another Air India 787 crashed in Ahmedabad, killing at least 270 people. Authorities have ordered additional safety checks on Air India’s 787 fleet but have not grounded the aircraft. Alternative arrangements were made for the affected passengers.

Indian investigators have recovered both black boxes—the flight data recorder and cockpit voice recorder—from the wreckage of Air India Flight 171, a Boeing 787-8 that crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad, killing all but one of the 242 onboard and at least 33 on the ground. The AAIB leads the probe with assistance from the U.S. NTSB and U.K. teams; the FAA has surveyed the site. Authorities hope the CVR will clarify events after a mayday call moments after departure. DNA identification of victims is ongoing, with 24 bodies returned so far and over 400 family members in Ahmedabad. India has ordered extra safety checks on Air India’s Dreamliner fleet, and a high-level committee is reviewing procedures.

An iron bridge collapsed over a river in the Kundamala area of Pune district, Maharashtra, killing at least two people and injuring 32; six are in critical condition. Scores of tourists were on the bridge, and some were swept away amid high river flow after recent rains. Six people have been rescued, and search operations continue with National Disaster Response Force teams. Maharashtra’s chief minister expressed condolences, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi pledged support. The incident underscores ongoing safety concerns with India’s infrastructure.

France sealed off five Israeli defense firms’ booths at the Paris Air Show, citing a ban on displaying “offensive weapons” amid the Gaza war. Black walls covered stands from IAI, Rafael, Uvision, Elbit, and Aeronautics, which showcase drones and guided munitions. Prime Minister François Bayrou said defensive systems were allowed but offensive ones were not, reflecting France’s concerns over Gaza. Israel condemned the move as “outrageous,” alleging commercial motives and discrimination; President Isaac Herzog demanded reversal. Critics noted other nations displayed strike munitions, including French-made systems. The controversy overshadowed industry news, including Airbus orders, while Boeing emphasized support after the deadly Air India 787 crash.

Residents across Spain and parts of southern Europe staged coordinated protests against mass tourism, citing surging housing costs and displacement of locals. In Barcelona and Mallorca, some demonstrators sprayed tourists with water guns to draw attention to overtourism’s impact, including rising rents, loss of neighborhood shops, and short-term rentals crowding out housing. Protests also occurred in Granada, San Sebastián, Ibiza, Venice, and Lisbon. Spain, which saw a record 94 million visitors in 2024, is tightening regulations: the national government ordered tens of thousands of illegal listings off Airbnb, and Barcelona plans to eliminate all 10,000 short-term rental licenses by 2028. While the tourism industry argues it’s being scapegoated, many residents say short-term rentals are worsening a housing crisis and changing city life. Authorities are seeking ways to mitigate tourism’s harms without undermining a sector contributing roughly 12% of Spain’s GDP.

The Louvre closed unexpectedly after staff staged a spontaneous strike over overcrowding, chronic understaffing, and poor working conditions. Workers say the museum’s infrastructure and visitor management are overwhelmed, with daily caps still leading to packed galleries—especially around the Mona Lisa. The closure highlights broader overtourism pressures and comes despite a long-term “Louvre New Renaissance” renovation plan announced by President Macron, which includes a dedicated Mona Lisa room with timed entry and a new entrance by 2031. Staff argue they need immediate relief as the aging building faces water leaks, temperature issues, limited facilities, and unsafe crowding. Ticket prices for non-EU tourists are set to rise to help fund the €700–€800 million overhaul.

A French tourist in her 60s was arrested in Reykjavik, Iceland, on suspicion of murdering her husband and daughter while they were vacationing. The two were found dead with injuries, reportedly including stab wounds, in a room on the fourth floor of the Edition Hotel on Saturday morning; the woman was found injured and later remanded in custody until June 20. Police have not confirmed identities or family relations but said the detained woman was traveling with the victims. The investigation is ongoing in a country where homicides are rare.

At Verona’s Palazzo Maffei, a tourist couple damaged Nicola Bolla’s Swarovski crystal-covered “Van Gogh” chair while posing for photos; the man slipped and fell onto it, breaking two legs, then the pair left without notifying staff. The museum reported the incident to police and released security footage weeks later to promote respect for art. The chair has since been restored and returned to display, with officials noting it was clearly marked not to touch and placed on a pedestal.

On the 10th anniversary of the 2015 racist massacre at Charleston’s Emanuel AME Church, the city and congregation reflect on grief, resilience, and unfinished work toward racial justice. The daily tolling of nine bells honors the victims, including Pastor and State Sen. Clementa Pinckney. Survivors and families have turned pain into advocacy, pushing for hate crime legislation and stronger gun background checks. Charleston has apologized for slavery and formed an equity commission, though leaders say deeper change—particularly among white communities—remains necessary. The church, the oldest Black congregation in the South, is building a memorial designed by 9/11 architect Michael Arad to foster reflection, acknowledge racism, and promote reconciliation, emphasizing transformation from tragedy without being trapped by the past.

Alfred Brendel, the renowned Austrian pianist celebrated for his intellectually rigorous and lucid interpretations of the classical repertoire, died at 94 at his home in London. Largely self-taught and not a prodigy, he built an atypical yet illustrious career centered on Mozart, Beethoven, and Liszt, becoming the first pianist to record all of Beethoven’s piano works and revisiting core pieces throughout his life. Admired for depth over showiness and noted for his dry wit, Brendel also wrote poetry and essays, lectured widely, and embraced Dadaist humor. He retired from performing in 2008 but continued writing and speaking for years.

Goliath, a 135-year-old, nearly 600-pound Galápagos tortoise at Zoo Miami, celebrated his first Father’s Day alongside the birth of his first hatchling on June 4—the zoo’s first-ever Galápagos tortoise hatchling. After decades of unsuccessful pairings, he bred with Sweet Pea; their offspring is healthy and being raised separately, as is typical for the species. Zoo Miami has applied to Guinness World Records to recognize Goliath (and the pair) as the oldest first-time father and parents. Galápagos tortoises can live 100–200 years, with incubation temperature determining hatchling sex; similar late-in-life first-time parents were recently reported at the Philadelphia Zoo.

The NAACP announced it will not invite President Trump to its July national convention, breaking a 116-year tradition of inviting sitting presidents. NAACP President Derrick Johnson said Trump is attacking democracy and civil rights through actions like executive orders affecting voting and civil rights protections. The White House called the decision divisive and claimed Trump is uniting the country and has strong support from Black voters. The NAACP, which has historically hosted presidents from both parties, cited the administration’s rollbacks on DEI, changes to federal websites, and moves to restore military base names as conflicting with its mission. The organization has filed multiple lawsuits against the administration, including over DEI funding and plans to dismantle the Education Department.

A Minnesota man, Vance Boelter, was arrested and charged in the killings of Democratic state Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband and the wounding of state Sen. John Hoffman and his wife after allegedly impersonating a police officer and targeting officials listed in a notebook “hit list” of at least 45 lawmakers across multiple states. Rep. Hillary Scholten (D-Mich.), whose name was on the list, called the threat “truly chilling,” postponed a town hall out of caution, but vowed to continue public engagement while reviewing safety protocols. Former Secret Service agent Bill Gage said fully protecting all lawmakers is nearly impossible and urged stronger threat assessments and training for state and local agencies with federal support. Authorities labeled the shootings a political assassination; Boelter faces multiple federal and state charges, with a preliminary hearing set for June 27.

NPR’s Tiny Desk honors Black Music Month with jazz legend Stanley Clarke and his young band 4EVER, revisiting classics from his 1974–76 solo run while infusing them with fresh energy. Clarke, known for powerful acoustic and electric bass, leads Cameron Graves (keys), Colin Cook (guitar), Emilio Modeste (sax), Evan Garr (violin), and Jeremiah Collier (drums) through “Song to John,” “Yesterday Princess,” “1, 2, To the Bass,” and a funk-charged “School Days.” The set underscores Clarke’s enduring innovation, mentorship of rising musicians, and the lasting impact of his catalog more than 50 years after his solo debut.

A year before co-hosting the 2026 World Cup, the USMNT is under pressure after poor results, including its first four-game losing streak since 2007 and a Copa América group-stage exit that led to Gregg Berhalter’s firing. New coach Mauricio Pochettino faces early turbulence, highlighted by Christian Pulisic’s decision to skip the Gold Cup to rest, which sparked public criticism and a terse response from Pochettino about team control and selection standards. Injuries and club conflicts have sidelined key players, opening chances for younger talents. The team began the Gold Cup with a 5-0 win over Trinidad and Tobago, led by Malik Tillman, and hopes a strong tournament run can reset momentum and calm growing scrutiny.

A SIPRI report finds China is expanding its nuclear arsenal faster than any other nation, reaching at least 600 warheads and adding about 100 annually since 2023, with a potential to hit 1,500 by 2035. While the U.S. and Russia still hold about 90% of global stockpiles (5,177 and 5,459 total warheads respectively), China’s rapid buildup— including new ICBM fields and limited warheads on operational alert—marks a shift from past restraint. Beijing maintains it follows a defensive nuclear posture and a no-first-use policy. The trend reflects an accelerating global arms competition and fewer warhead dismantlements, heightening strategic concerns, particularly for Taiwan and U.S.-China tensions.

Colombian senator and 2026 presidential hopeful Miguel Uribe Turbay, 39, remains in extremely critical condition after a third emergency brain surgery addressing persistent cerebral edema and uncontrollable bleeding, following his 7 June shooting at a Bogotá campaign rally. The attack, which evoked memories of Colombia’s violent political past, sparked nationwide marches and vigils. Three suspects are in custody, including a 15-year-old alleged shooter; another suspect is charged with planning and supplying the weapon. A dissident FARC faction denied involvement. Uribe, of the right-wing Democratic Center party and from a prominent political family, had announced his presidential bid last October. His wife has called for national prayers as campaigning for the 2026 election begins.

Six people, including four police officers, have been killed and more than 300 injured in weeks of clashes across Bolivia as supporters of former president Evo Morales protest court rulings barring him from running in the 17 August election. Road blockades since 2 June have disrupted food, fuel, and medicine supplies despite a partial pause. President Luis Arce’s government has opened a “terrorism” probe into Morales, who is sheltered in the Chapare region amid an arrest warrant over alleged statutory rape, which he denies. The UN has called for impartial investigations into the deaths. The crisis unfolds amid a severe economic downturn and deep fractures within the ruling left, with Arce backing ex-interior minister Eduardo del Castillo and rival leftist Andrónico Rodríguez also running. Right-leaning candidates Samuel Doria Medina and former president Jorge “Tuto” Quiroga are polling competitively. Authorities insist elections will proceed, but uncertainty persists as tensions escalate over Morales’s exclusion.

A federal court in Argentina allowed former president Cristina Fernández de Kirchner, 72, to serve her six-year corruption sentence under house arrest at her Buenos Aires apartment, citing her age and security concerns following a past assassination attempt. The decision follows the supreme court’s confirmation of her conviction and a lifetime ban from public office for steering public works contracts to an ally. The ruling sparked mass protests and blocks her from running in upcoming Buenos Aires elections. Fernández, a polarizing figure who led Argentina from 2007 to 2015 and shaped Kirchnerism, denies wrongdoing and claims political persecution; she also faces additional corruption trials.

USAID is withdrawing a pledged $29.5m, five-year commitment to the Jane Goodall Institute’s Hope Through Action project in western Tanzania, launched in 2023 to protect endangered chimpanzees through reforestation and community-led conservation. The cuts, part of broader reductions under Donald Trump, jeopardize efforts amid chimpanzee populations falling below 340,000 and extinctions in three African countries. Ecosia and JGI Austria have committed $100,000 over three years to support Gombe reforestation—funding for 360,000 seedlings—but this only partially offsets the shortfall. An April analysis found 98% of USAID climate-related awards had been discontinued. USAID has not commented.

Brazil’s federal police have accused former president Jair Bolsonaro of overseeing an illegal spy network from within his administration (2019–2023) that targeted political rivals, journalists, environmental officials, and even supreme court justices. The alleged scheme, run by ex-intelligence chief Alexandre Ramagem and involving over 30 people including Bolsonaro’s son Carlos, purportedly used Brazil’s intelligence agency (Abin) to hack devices and feed a palace-based social media unit for attacks. Targets reportedly included Arthur Lira, João Doria, and Ibama official Hugo Loss. Bolsonaro, already facing likely conviction over an alleged coup plot after the 2022 election, and Ramagem deny wrongdoing; Carlos Bolsonaro claims political persecution. Police believe the spy network aimed to help Bolsonaro retain power.

The Pacific Freedom Forum warns the region faces a critical moment for press freedom as journalists confront costly civil suits and criminal defamation charges that small, underfunded outlets cannot afford to fight. Cases include Palau publisher Leilani Reklai, sued by a company linked to the president’s family, and Samoa’s journalists’ association president Lagi Keresoma, charged under re-criminalized defamation laws; Papua New Guinea also criminalizes defamation with severe penalties and ranks lowest in the region on press freedom. Cultural pressures in small communities drive self-censorship, and legal threats risk bankrupting outlets. The Forum is fundraising to support defendants, stressing the stakes for media independence and democracy across the Pacific.

Amazon’s 2025 Prime Day will run for four days for the first time, from July 8–11, starting at 12:01 a.m. PT. The event will feature daily themed “deal drops” available while supplies last, continuing Amazon’s push to create urgency with limited-run offers. Launched in 2015 to attract and retain $139/year Prime members and boost midyear sales, Prime Day expanded to 48 hours in 2019 and now spans 96 hours, with rival retailers typically staging competing sales during the period.

The Bank of Japan kept its benchmark rate at 0.5% and confirmed it will keep reducing monthly JGB purchases by about ¥400 billion per quarter until March 2026 (to roughly ¥3 trillion/month). From April 2026 to March 2027, it will slow the pace of cuts to ¥200 billion per quarter, targeting about ¥2 trillion/month, with an interim review in June 2026. The move aims to improve JGB market functioning amid rising long-end yields. Markets reacted with modest gains: Nikkei up 0.55%, yen slightly stronger, and 10-year JGB yields up to 1.491%. While signaling future rate hikes if underlying inflation nears 2%, the BOJ flagged growth risks as Japan faces moderating economic activity, persistent inflation (3.6% in April), and a recent GDP contraction.

Gold has surged about 30% in 2025, outperforming traditional safe havens like U.S. Treasurys, the yen, and the Swiss franc. Experts at the Asia Pacific Precious Metals Conference say gold’s appeal stems from being no one’s liability, apolitical, liquid, and free of counterparty risk—unlike government-issued assets. Investor concern over U.S. fiscal sustainability, volatile policy, and tariff-driven shocks has dented confidence in Treasurys and the dollar, while rate dynamics and policy stances have limited the yen and franc’s attractiveness. Geopolitical tensions and robust central bank buying—over 1,000 tons in 2024—further support gold, which now constitutes about 20% of global reserves per the ECB.

Vantage Data Centers raised €720 million in Europe’s first euro-denominated ABS backed by data center assets in Germany, following a £600 million U.K. deal, effectively creating a new asset class that gives European investors direct exposure to cloud and AI growth. Structured by Barclays with legal work from Clifford Chance and Hogan Lovells, the securitizations leverage stable cash flows from hyperscaler leases to refinance construction debt at lower fixed rates, supporting Vantage’s rapid expansion. After extensive investor education and bespoke legal/tax structuring to ring-fence assets, the German deal achieved tighter spreads than the U.K. transaction, signaling growing comfort and liquidity. The bonds feature “soft bullet” repayments and two tranches (A- and BBB-), both investment grade, with strong tenant credit (AA- to AAA). Vantage sees ABS as its core financing “North Star” in EMEA, broadening European insurance and ABS investor participation and offering a template for other data center operators amid accelerating AI-driven demand.

Japan is shifting from a largely domestic, pacifist defense posture toward promoting arms exports to strengthen security ties and bolster its struggling defense industrial base. Defense Minister Gen Nakatani and Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba are leading the push, emphasizing interoperability with allies and more resilient supply chains over profit. Easing of long-standing export restrictions under Shinzo Abe and later Fumio Kishida now allows licensed production and re-exports (e.g., Patriot missiles to the U.S.). Experts say exports can create economies of scale, lower costs, and justify industrial investment, addressing years of industry contraction. Despite tiny current export volumes versus South Korea and China, Japan sees defense demand rising globally and aims to reduce overreliance on U.S. supplies amid Washington’s calls for allies to spend more. Constraints remain, including strict regulations, demographic-driven manufacturing challenges, and a likely focus on exports that reinforce ties with like-minded partners, especially the U.S., rather than competing broadly for global market share.

SK Hynix shares hit a more than 20-year high after reports that parent SK Group will build South Korea’s largest AI data center in Ulsan with AWS, led by SK Telecom and SK Broadband with support from SK Hynix. The stock is up nearly 50% year-to-date on AI momentum and gained about 3% Tuesday. SK Hynix’s dominance in high-bandwidth memory (HBM)—supplying Nvidia—has driven its lead, capturing 70% of HBM revenue in Q1 and overtaking Samsung in overall DRAM market share (36% vs. 34%). Samsung shares rose 4%, but its market cap recently hit a 9-year low amid slower AI gains.

Russian overnight missile and drone strikes on Kyiv killed 14 people and wounded at least 44, damaging a residential building, educational sites, and critical infrastructure across 27 locations, according to Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko. A 62-year-old US citizen was among the dead. Officials called it one of the largest attacks on the capital since 2022, with a seven-hour air raid and fires sparked by debris from intercepted drones. The assault comes amid the G7 Summit; President Zelenskyy was set to meet Donald Trump, who is returning to Washington due to Middle East tensions. Ukraine urged stronger sanctions and increased defense support, while Russia framed recent barrages as retaliation for Ukrainian strikes on Russian airbases.

Ireland has begun a long-awaited forensic excavation at the former Tuam mother and baby home in County Galway, where the remains of up to 796 babies and children are believed buried, many in a disused sewage tank dubbed “the pit.” Sparked by historian Catherine Corless’s 2014 research documenting 798 child deaths at the home (1925–1961), the dig—led by Daniel MacSweeney—could take up to two years, aiming to recover remains, use DNA to identify as many children as possible, and provide dignified reburials. The effort follows a 2021 state apology acknowledging appalling infant mortality across such institutions and apologies from the Sisters of Bon Secours. Families hope for closure, though many identities may remain unknown, highlighting enduring questions about the church’s treatment of unmarried mothers and their children.

A Norwegian court cleared athletics coach Gjert Ingebrigtsen of abusing his Olympic champion son Jakob, but found him guilty of a single minor assault against his daughter Ingrid for hitting her with a wet towel. Gjert received a 15-day suspended sentence and must pay about £730 in compensation. Prosecutors had sought a 2.5-year prison term over alleged years-long domestic abuse; Gjert pleaded not guilty, saying he was an overprotective father. Jakob, 24, had testified that his childhood was marked by fear and manipulation. The case followed the family’s public split and a 2023 column by the three brothers alleging violence. Gjert’s lawyers said the ruling showed no continuous fear was proven; Jakob and Ingrid’s lawyer said they were pleased some claims were upheld. It’s unclear if prosecutors will appeal. Gjert now coaches Jakob’s 1,500m rival, Narve Gilje Nordas.

Over 60 former security chiefs, military leaders, and politicians have urged Prime Minister Keir Starmer to allocate a larger share of the UK’s reduced overseas aid budget to conflict prevention and peacebuilding. While not opposing the cut of aid from 0.5% to 0.3% of GDP to fund higher defence spending, they warn that the current drop in conflict-prevention funding—from 4% of aid in 2018 to about 1–1.5%—is a “false economy” that risks a growing global conflict crisis. The signatories, including former MI5 heads and senior military figures, call for restoring conflict-related spending to 4% of the aid budget and adopting an all-of-government approach in the forthcoming national security strategy. They caution that losing UK-backed initiatives, such as peace processes and the Women, Peace and Security agenda, would increase insecurity, displacement, and humanitarian crises.

Former Downers Grove South High School teacher Christina Formella, 30, faced 55 new charges in Illinois, including aggravated sexual assault, criminal sexual abuse, and grooming, for allegedly having about 50 sexual encounters with a student—at least 45 at school—and beginning contact when he was 14. Prosecutors say the relationship ran from January 2023 to September 2024 and was supported by extensive text messages, including ones sent while she was on vacation with her husband, Michael, who accompanied her to court and stood by her. Despite prosecutors’ push to revoke bail, a judge allowed her to remain free with stricter conditions, including a GPS ankle monitor and monitoring software on her devices. She pleaded not guilty and faces up to 60 years if convicted.

The New York Post has launched its first daily news podcast, the NY POSTcast, hosted by Emmy-winning journalist Caitlyn Becker. Dropping weekday mornings, it offers a sharp, snarky roundup of politics, business, pop culture, true crime, and more, reflecting the Post’s signature style. It’s available starting June 17 on NYPost.com, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and other platforms.

A massive overnight Russian attack on Kyiv killed at least 28 people, including an American, and injured 134, making it one of the deadliest strikes on the capital this year. The assault came as G-7 leaders offered limited public emphasis on the war in Ukraine amid internal divisions, drawing criticism from observers who see insufficient support for Kyiv.

Britain’s House of Commons voted 379–137 to decriminalize abortion in England and Wales, removing criminal penalties for ending a pregnancy outside the 1967 Abortion Act’s parameters while keeping existing service rules (e.g., 24-week limit, two-doctor approval) for providers. The change responds to a rise in investigations and prosecutions of suspected unlawful abortions, highlighted by high-profile cases like Nicola Packer’s. Supporters say it ends the threat of prosecuting pregnant people; critics argue it could allow self-managed abortions up to birth. The amendment, part of a broader Crime and Policing Bill, is expected to become law later this year.

A tourist at Verona’s Palazzo Maffei museum was caught on surveillance video sitting on and collapsing an extremely fragile chair artwork, “Van Gogh” by Nicola Bolla, which is covered in Swarovski crystals. The museum said the visitors waited for security to leave before taking the photo that caused the damage. Initially uncertain if restoration was possible, the museum later reported the piece was successfully repaired thanks to police, security, and restorers. It’s unclear if the culprits were identified or penalized. The museum shared the incident to promote respect for art.