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The article argues that while Brexit and Trump were once seen as twin expressions of populist revolt, their trajectories have diverged, each exposing the other’s weaknesses. In Britain, Brexit’s promise of both restoration and revolution fizzled as the political system absorbed it; the “Blob” survived, and Brexiteers failed to convert anti-establishment energy into lasting structural change. Figures like Boris Johnson were more conventional than their populist image suggested, and post-2020 politics became dominated by pandemic fallout and market discipline, not a Brexit refounding. Trump, by contrast, has moved from being constrained by institutions in his first term to seeking to break them in his second, but he lacks a coherent plan for the aftermath—offering disruption without a governing prospectus. Thus Brexit becomes a cautionary tale about populism being tamed by institutions, while Trump’s approach warns of chaos when institutions are shredded without a viable alternative. Each now serves as a morality tale for the other: Brexit shows how revolts can be domesticated; Trump shows how smashing norms can lead to purposeless disorder.

CBS News president Wendy McMahon was forced out amid escalating tensions between CBS, “60 Minutes,” and President Trump, as Paramount, CBS’s parent, considers settling Trump’s $20 billion lawsuit over an allegedly deceptive Harris interview. The turmoil has already prompted “60 Minutes” executive producer Bill Owens to resign, with producers citing added corporate oversight and settlement sensitivities. A planned IRS-related segment was pulled for further reporting after internal debate. Paramount leaders had long questioned McMahon’s performance, citing ratings declines and concerns about political bias. Trump’s team has threatened additional legal action over recent “60 Minutes” coverage, while Shari Redstone pursues a sale of Paramount to Skydance. McMahon will aid the transition; Tom Cibrowski and Jennifer Mitchell will oversee CBS News in the interim.

Clayton Patterson, 76, has spent over four decades documenting the Lower East Side from his cluttered, deteriorating building at 161 Essex Street, amassing a vast archive of photos, videos, art, and ephemera capturing the neighborhood’s subcultures, from punks and graffiti artists to protests like the 1988 Tompkins Square Park riots. Though he owns the building and wants it preserved as a gallery or research center, age, health issues, and the sheer scale of the collection have left him unable to organize or safeguard it. With his partner, Elsa Rensaa, in assisted living and limited institutional support, friends and admirers warn that this “priceless” record of a vanishing Lower East Side risks being lost unless a solution is found to stabilize the building and relocate or properly house the archives, at least temporarily through options like nearby Essex Crossing.

Richard L. “Dick” Garwin, a prodigy mentored by Enrico Fermi, secretly designed the first hydrogen bomb at age 23, a weapon thousands of times more powerful than the Hiroshima bomb. Though he believed the H-bomb’s emergence was inevitable, the experience—and Fermi’s deathbed regret about not engaging in public policy—propelled Garwin into decades of quiet, influential service advising 13 U.S. presidents on nuclear arms control and national security. He became a relentless critic of destabilizing weapons systems from within the defense establishment, often working anonymously, while also contributing to major scientific advances, including support for gravitational-wave detection. Garwin kept his H-bomb role hidden from his family for roughly 50 years, fearing that loose talk might expose him to foreign intelligence seeking nuclear secrets—a concern he maintained even after the facts became public. Celebrated across party lines and awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2016, Garwin’s legacy is a paradox: the architect of a civilization-ending weapon who spent his life trying to prevent its use.

India’s government intensified a crackdown on dissent following a brief conflict with Pakistan, arresting Ali Khan Mahmudabad, a political science professor at Ashoka University, over social media posts criticizing “bloodlust for war” while supporting India’s troops. He faces charges related to threatening sovereignty and potentially life in prison. Authorities also pressured platforms to block thousands of accounts, barred British Indian scholar Nitasha Kaul from entering India, arrested a critical newspaper owner on tax grounds, blocked media accounts, and revoked an Indian license for Turkey-based Celebi Airport Services citing national security. The actions highlight continued suppression of critics under Prime Minister Narendra Modi despite a slight improvement in India’s press freedom ranking and perceptions of recent easing after the BJP lost its parliamentary majority.

Israel announced it has retrieved a trove of 2,500 documents and personal effects belonging to Eli Cohen, its famed spy executed in Syria in 1965. Recovered with help from an unnamed foreign ally, the items include undercover-era documents, photos, personal artifacts, and letters, and may detail his final moments, though they do not clarify the location of his burial. Cohen’s intelligence significantly aided Israel ahead of the 1967 Six-Day War. The announcement, seen as a rare unifying moment in Israel, comes amid Syria’s efforts to reengage internationally and follows past operations to recover Cohen’s belongings. His family reiterated calls for the return of his remains.

Moody’s downgraded the U.S. credit rating, leaving the country without a triple-A from any major agency, citing rising deficits, debt costs, and a congressional push to make the 2017 tax cuts permanent. Markets reacted with global stock declines of around 0.5–1% in Asia, a weaker dollar, and higher Treasury yields (10-year up to 4.51%), raising concerns that Treasuries’ safe-haven status could erode and borrowing costs could rise. Analysts warn the downgrade may spotlight fiscal risks in other indebted countries like Japan, recalling volatility after the 2011 S&P U.S. downgrade.

The Thunder crushed the shorthanded Nuggets 125-93 in Game 7 to reach the West finals, led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s 35 and Jalen Williams’ 24, while holding Denver to 39.3% shooting. Aaron Gordon played through a Grade 2 hamstring injury, limiting his secondary ballhandling and Denver’s offense; the Nuggets also missed open corner threes, allowing OKC to pack the paint and swarm Jamal Murray and Nikola Jokić. Alex Caruso’s standout defense on Jokić (20 points on 5 FGs, 5 turnovers) helped force 21 Denver turnovers that became 32 Thunder points. Oklahoma City faces Minnesota next, with Game 1 Tuesday in OKC.

The op-ed argues that while Trump fixates on tariffs and short-term trade skirmishes, China is accelerating ahead through coordinated state-led investment, industrial policy, and research funding. China already leads or is surging in sectors like EVs, batteries, solar, robotics, AI, pharmaceuticals, and increasingly semiconductors, creating reinforcing technological advantages. The author warns that Trump’s tariffs, cuts to research and universities, and retreat from global engagement erode U.S. innovation and soft power, risking a future where China dominates high-end manufacturing and AI while the U.S. becomes inward-looking, less competitive, and more expensive. To avoid this outcome, the U.S. must urgently invest in R&D, support academia and industry, deepen global economic ties, and attract international talent—policies the author says the Trump administration is undermining.

The author argues that China is rapidly consolidating dominance in advanced manufacturing and technology through state-led investment, long-term industrial strategy, and expanding global supply chains, while the U.S., under Trump’s tariff-focused approach, is undermining its own innovation ecosystem, research base, and global engagement. China now leads or surges in EVs, batteries, solar, robotics, AI, and increasingly semiconductors, creating a reinforcing technological edge. If current trajectories persist, China will control key high-tech sectors and global supply chains, while a tariff-sheltered U.S. faces higher prices, weaker competitiveness, and declining industries. The author urges immediate U.S. policy shifts: invest in R&D, support universities and innovation, deepen global economic ties, and attract international talent to avoid ceding the century to China.

Satellite imagery, confirmed by NATO, shows Russia expanding military infrastructure near Finland’s border—new tents, vehicle warehouses, renovated jet shelters, and a revived helicopter base—signaling early steps toward a longer-term buildup after the Ukraine war. While current troop levels remain low and not immediately threatening, Finnish officials anticipate Russia could triple forces along the 830-mile frontier within about five years, especially as Moscow restructures units facing NATO and shifts assets north to the Arctic to evade Ukrainian strikes. Activity is noted at bases near Murmansk, Olenya, Kamenka, Alakurtti, and Petrozavodsk. Finland, a recent NATO member, views the buildup as likely but manageable for now, preparing for increased Russian presence once fighting in Ukraine subsides.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa will meet President Trump at the White House to challenge Trump’s debunked claims of a “white genocide” against Afrikaner farmers and his move to admit Afrikaners as refugees, expel South Africa’s ambassador, and cut aid. Ramaphosa will push for an independent probe into the claims, defend policies aimed at redressing apartheid-era inequality (including land expropriation without compensation), and seek to reset ties by emphasizing trade and investment. He plans to court Elon Musk with proposals involving Tesla charging infrastructure, tariff incentives, and potential SpaceX launches. On Israel-Gaza, Ramaphosa will highlight perceived U.S. double standards, referencing South Africa’s genocide case against Israel while seeking common ground on humanitarian aid. He will also propose a bilateral trade deal focused on areas like energy, arguing that close economic ties serve both nations, with the U.S. already a key trading partner.

Coyotes, once eradicated from San Francisco, have rebounded to an estimated 100 animals living in tightly defined urban territories across parks, hills, and golf courses. Likely returning from the north—possibly via the Golden Gate Bridge—their presence has become a visible part of city life and culture, inspiring fascination and advocacy alongside rising conflict. While many residents celebrate sightings, a spike in aggressive encounters, including attacks on small dogs and a bite to a child, prompted targeted removals and temporary park closures. Scientists emphasize that human behaviors—feeding (intentionally or via trash), leaving bait, and off-leash small dogs—drive most conflicts. Ecologists argue coyotes are vital for urban ecosystem balance by controlling rats and feral cats. Officials promote coexistence: secure trash, never feed wildlife, keep dogs leashed (especially small breeds), and give coyotes space.

President Trump publicly pressured major companies like Walmart and Mattel to absorb the costs of his broad tariffs rather than raise prices, despite warnings from retailers and manufacturers that higher import duties are squeezing margins and could reach consumers. The administration insists foreign countries will bear the costs and cites steady inflation so far, while critics and economists say tariffs largely hit U.S. businesses and shoppers. Walmart signaled it may need to raise prices, prompting Trump to demand it “eat the tariffs”; Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent suggested the retailer would absorb some costs. Trump has also threatened Mattel with steep tariffs over potential toy price hikes and criticized other firms, even as markets wobble and trade negotiations lag. The stance marks a shift from Trump’s campaign attacks on price controls, and raises the risk that prolonged tariffs could fuel inflation and pressure the economy.

The WNBA is investigating allegations that racist comments were directed at Chicago Sky rookie Angel Reese by fans during Saturday’s season opener against the Indiana Fever at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. The league, Sky, WNBPA, and Fever all issued statements condemning hate and pledging cooperation. The incident occurred amid boos for Reese, peaking after Caitlin Clark was assessed a flagrant foul on her in the third quarter of Indiana’s 35-point win. The probe comes days after the WNBA launched its “No Space for Hate” platform to address harassment and enhance security and mental health resources. Both Reese and Clark downplayed the on-court incident postgame. The teams meet again June 7.

Germany’s DAX is near record highs after a 19% year-to-date surge, driven by optimism over a new coalition government, planned defense and infrastructure spending, and a rotation out of U.S. assets amid earlier trade tensions. With the U.S. and China agreeing to a 90-day tariff pause, Wall Street’s rebound could sap momentum as money flows back to American equities. Strategists are split: Deutsche Bank remains bullish with a 25,000 year-end target, citing better valuations, fiscal backdrop, rates, and potential geopolitical tailwinds for Germany. Others warn the DAX’s valuation is no longer a deep bargain and gains could be capped by lingering U.S.-EU trade risks, execution risks for Germany’s policies, and investors’ tendency to favor U.S. markets. Overall, upside remains but faces near-term headwinds and reallocations back to the U.S.

Asia-Pacific markets fell Monday as investors digested fresh China data and Moody’s downgrade of U.S. sovereign debt to Aa1. Hong Kong’s Hang Seng, China’s CSI 300, Japan’s Nikkei and Topix, South Korea’s Kospi and Kosdaq, and Australia’s S&P/ASX 200 all declined, with the RBA beginning a two-day meeting. Moody’s move, following S&P (2011) and Fitch (2023), highlighted U.S. deficit and refinancing risks but was seen as unlikely to trigger major market turmoil. U.S. futures slipped after a strong week that pushed the S&P 500 and Dow higher. China’s April data were mixed: retail sales rose 5.1% year-on-year (below expectations), industrial output grew 6.1% (beat), and fixed-asset investment Jan–Apr increased 4.0% (slightly below estimates), underscoring persistent consumption concerns. Thailand’s Q1 GDP grew 3.1% year-on-year, beating forecasts but slowing from Q4; the 2025 growth outlook was trimmed to 1.3%–2.3%. In corporate news, South Korea’s Kumho Tire fell over 7% after a fire halted operations.

China’s April data showed uneven momentum: retail sales rose 5.1% year over year, missing expectations and slowing from March’s 5.9%, underscoring weak consumer demand despite stimulus. Industrial output grew 6.1%, beating forecasts but easing from 7.7% in March, suggesting U.S. tariffs had a smaller-than-feared impact, aided by export diversification to Southeast Asia. Fixed-asset investment rose 4.0% in January–April, with real estate investment down 10.3%, highlighting ongoing property sector drag. Urban unemployment edged down to 5.1%. Despite a temporary tariff rollback and signs of export resilience—including expected frontloading of U.S.-bound shipments—deflationary pressures persist, auto sales were soft, and economists call for more policy easing. Markets were muted, and the PBOC is nudging rates lower ahead of LPR decisions.

Xiaomi will invest at least 50 billion yuan ($6.9 billion) over the next decade to develop in-house chips, starting in 2025. The company will unveil its new 3nm Xring O1 system-on-chip this week for upcoming smartphones, marking a return to core SoC development after pausing efforts following its 2017 Surge S1. Despite the move, Qualcomm says it will remain a key supplier for Xiaomi’s flagship devices. Xiaomi’s push aligns with China’s broader drive for tech self-reliance amid U.S.-China trade tensions.

European stocks closed flat, with the Stoxx 600 unchanged, FTSE 100 up 0.17%, Germany’s DAX hitting a record (+0.6%), and France’s CAC 40 slightly lower (-0.04%). Fixed income and FX saw bigger moves: U.S. Treasury yields jumped after Moody’s downgraded U.S. credit, with the 30-year above 5%; U.K. gilt yields rose across the curve. The British pound rallied (~0.7% to $1.336) after the U.K. and EU agreed to reset post-Brexit relations. Earlier in the session, European equities had opened lower. Volkswagen fell about 5% following shareholder pressure at its AGM. Prosus launched a €4.1 billion cash offer for Just Eat Takeaway at €20.30 per share, with completion targeted by end-2025. Upcoming earnings include Vodafone, Greggs, Swiss Life, and Lagercrantz.

Smartex, a Portugal-based startup, uses cameras and AI to detect fabric defects during textile production, reducing waste and boosting yield. The company claims to have prevented 1 million kg of fabric waste in three years and enables about 0.37% more garments per kg of finished fabric. Backed by H&M Group, Amazon Web Services (via its Compute for Climate Fellowship), Tony Fadell, and Lightspeed, Smartex has raised over $40 million. It targets rapid ROI for factories—typically nine to 18 months—by saving on materials and energy, with installations often costing several hundred thousand dollars. Smartex aims to become an operating system for fashion supply chains, providing traceability and resource-use data across production, addressing a highly fragmented, under-digitized, and resource-intensive industry.

Qualcomm will re-enter the data center market with a custom Arm-based CPU designed to integrate with Nvidia GPUs and software, aiming to tap into AI infrastructure dominated by Nvidia alongside Intel and AMD. CEO Cristiano Amon said details on the roadmap and timing are coming soon, positioning the move as part of Qualcomm’s broader diversification beyond smartphones into data centers, PCs, and automotive. Industry analysts see room for new entrants as data centers are expected to be the fastest-growing semiconductor segment. Qualcomm also highlighted growing PC adoption of its Snapdragon X chips and plans a new PC chip announcement in September.

U.S. stocks eked out gains Monday despite Moody’s downgrading U.S. credit to Aa1, which initially spiked Treasury yields (10-year above 4.5%, 30-year above 5%) and pressured equities. The S&P 500 rose 0.09% to extend a six-session win streak; the Dow gained 0.32%, helped by an 8% rebound in UnitedHealth; the Nasdaq was flat. Yields later eased, helping markets recover intraday losses. JPMorgan’s Jamie Dimon warned of market complacency on tariffs, stagflation risk, and deficits. Retail “soft goods” store closures accelerated, with UBS expecting more pressure, especially for weaker chains amid potential tariff impacts. Digital Realty was named BofA’s top data center pick on AI demand. UnitedHealth logged its best two-day rally since 2020 after a steep selloff. IBM hit a record high, outpacing most “Magnificent Seven” over 12 months. Several S&P 500 stocks notched new 52-week or all-time highs. Traders are watching trade policy and yields as key drivers ahead.

U.S. stock futures fell Sunday after Moody’s downgraded the U.S. credit rating to Aa1 from Aaa, citing rising deficits and refinancing risks amid high borrowing costs. Dow, S&P 500, and Nasdaq 100 futures dropped roughly 0.7%–0.8%, raising concerns about upward pressure on bond yields. The pullback follows a strong week driven by a U.S.-China deal to temporarily cut tariffs, with the Nasdaq up 7%+, S&P 500 up 5%+, and the Dow up 3%+. Market watchers will track speeches from Fed officials and leading indicators on Monday. Separately, President Trump urged Walmart to absorb tariff costs, while the retailer said it aims to keep prices low but warned tariffs may lift prices.

President Trump is pressing South Korea to pay more for hosting about 28,500 U.S. troops, bundling defense cost-sharing with trade and tariff talks into a “one-stop shopping” deal. While Seoul’s government has signaled payments are off-limits, leading presidential candidates appear open to discussions. Analysts say Trump’s transactional approach could undermine U.S. credibility and push allies to question U.S. commitments, potentially nudging U.S. policy toward isolationism. Alternatives floated include South Korea boosting defense spending and buying more U.S. equipment to offset U.S. costs and refocus U.S. Forces Korea toward China. South Korea already spends 2.6% of GDP on defense and agreed in 2024 to raise its host-nation support by 8.3% in 2026, but Trump’s linkage of trade and defense could upend that 2026–2030 agreement. Cost-sharing began in 1991 and largely benefits Korean labor, construction, and logistics sectors.

The U.K. and EU struck a wide-ranging deal aimed at resetting post-Brexit relations, easing trade, strengthening security ties, and smoothing travel. It reduces red tape on food and drink exports, removes some checks on animal and plant products (allowing items like British sausages back into the EU), and lets U.K. defense firms participate in the EU’s proposed £150 billion defense fund. EU trawlers’ access to U.K. waters is extended to 2038, and British travelers will be able to use more airport eGates in the EU to cut border queues. A youth mobility scheme remains under negotiation, intended to allow capped, time-limited work and travel for young people. Leaders hailed the agreement as “historic,” though it faces domestic criticism in the U.K. for allegedly conceding too much to Brussels amid rising support for Reform UK. The government emphasized it does not return to the single market, customs union, or freedom of movement.

The U.K. will introduce formal regulation of buy now, pay later (BNPL) firms like Klarna, Affirm, and Afterpay starting next year to address concerns over affordability and consumer protection. The rules will require upfront affordability checks, easier access to refunds, and allow consumers to take complaints to the Financial Ombudsman. The government will adapt the decades-old Consumer Credit Act to better fit modern lending models. BNPL providers broadly support the move, saying it will bring clarity, consistent standards, and a more sustainable foundation for the sector’s growth.

China announced it is accelerating construction of Pakistan’s Mohmand Hydropower Project, calling it a critical milestone and a flagship Belt and Road project, after India said it would suspend the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty following an April 22 attack in Kashmir. With Pakistan heavily dependent on the Indus for about 80% of its agriculture, the move underscores Beijing’s support amid heightened water security risks. The dam, led by the state-owned China Energy Engineering Corporation since 2019, was slated for completion next year and has now entered a rapid development phase with concrete filling underway.

China’s new “drone mother ship” UAV, Jiu Tian, will conduct its first mission by the end of June, initiating tests ahead of PLA deployment. Revealed at the Zhuhai air show, the jet-powered, high-altitude UAV boasts a 7,000km range, 15,000m ceiling, 16-tonne max takeoff weight, and 25m wingspan. It can carry up to 6 tonnes of munitions and release up to 100 small drones or loitering munitions, including kamikaze UAVs, from its belly, potentially expanding the PLA’s unmanned combat reach by operating above many medium-range air defenses.

China’s economy showed resilience in April despite elevated US tariffs. Industrial output rose 6.1% year on year, beating expectations but slowing from March’s 7.7%. Retail sales increased 5.1%, below forecasts and down from 5.9% in March, signaling softer consumption. The month captured the full impact of triple-digit tariffs before a new 90-day US-China reprieve. China’s Politburo emphasized stabilizing employment, businesses, markets, and expectations, and boosting domestic demand amid global trade uncertainty.

China’s new home prices stabilised in April as policy easing and funding support bolstered confidence. Prices in first-tier and second-tier cities were flat month on month, while third-tier cities fell 0.2%. Beijing and Shanghai rose 0.1% and 0.5% respectively; Guangzhou and Shenzhen dipped 0.2% and 0.1%. The central bank cut the provident fund mortgage rate for first-time buyers to a record-low 2.6%, and banks have approved 6.7 trillion yuan in loans for “whitelist” projects covering nearly 16 million homes. However, the secondary market remains weak, with deeper losses in pre-owned homes in April.

A senior economist from the Asean+3 Macroeconomic Research Office says China’s yuan could rival a weakening US dollar if Beijing liberalizes convertibility and expands foreign access to yuan-denominated assets. While the yuan is already widely used for cross-border settlements, China needs deeper, more accessible financial markets and additional yuan-backed asset classes. Existing Hong Kong “connect” schemes offer a useful model, but limited convertibility remains a key obstacle to broader international adoption.

SCMP’s weekend roundup highlights five trends: Chinese parents are cooling on overseas degrees amid shifting priorities at home; Europe is embracing Chinese blind-box toys, with Pop Mart’s Labubu and Crybaby drawing devoted fans; a survey in Japan finds about 60% of people feel addicted to their smartphones; plus two other notable Asia-focused stories from the weekend’s coverage.

Analysts say a reported US$7 billion bid by Singapore-based Grab to acquire much of Indonesia’s GoTo could face strong resistance in Indonesia over foreign ownership and the influence of a regional rival. The proposed deal, cited by Reuters, would see Grab take GoTo’s international unit and most domestic operations, excluding its finance arm, potentially finalizing as early as Q2 and marking major consolidation in Southeast Asia’s tech sector. Market reaction has been positive: GoTo’s shares are up about 20% this year to a roughly US$5.8 billion value, while Grab’s Nasdaq shares rose 2.4% to nearly US$20 billion. Grab Indonesia has downplayed the reports, calling them unverified.

Pakistan’s ambassador to China, Khalil Hashmi, says Pakistan remains committed to the Kashmir ceasefire and supports stage-by-stage de-escalation already agreed by both sides, including goodwill gestures. He urges resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute through UN Security Council resolutions and international law, welcoming mediation offers such as from US President Donald Trump. Hashmi argues that peace requires India’s willingness to engage and warns that BRICS’ message of inclusivity will “ring hollow” if Pakistan remains blocked from membership by India.

Sichuan University removed an online announcement that it had hired renowned Japanese archaeologist Kazuo Miyamoto as a chair professor after backlash on Chinese social media questioning why a foreign scholar was chosen over Chinese talent. Miyamoto, a member of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences and vice-president of the Japanese Archaeological Association, is a leading expert on East Asian and Eurasian archaeology. Neither he nor the university commented after the notice was taken down.

US importers are pressuring Hong Kong manufacturers to illegally bypass tariffs amid a 90-day pause in the US-China trade war, industry veterans say. Although the temporary suspension—lowering US tariffs on Chinese goods from 145% to 30% and China’s duties on US goods from 125% to 10%—offers brief relief, manufacturers face daily challenges and are accelerating diversification to Vietnam and Thailand to mitigate geopolitical risks. Executives expect tariffs may settle at 15–20% but still see the US market as difficult; apparel tariffs during the pause remain around 37.5%. Despite a potential Xi-Trump meeting, firms are not easing contingency plans.

Two climbers—Indian mountaineer Subrata Ghosh and Filipino climber Philipp Santiago, 45—died on Mount Everest this week. Ghosh died Thursday just below the summit while descending; Santiago died Wednesday after reaching Camp 4 and preparing for his summit push. Their bodies remain on the mountain, with expedition organizers undecided on retrieval due to the high risk and cost, especially in the “death zone.” The deaths come amid the peak spring climbing season, during which Nepal has issued over 1,000 permits. Recent weeks have seen multiple fatalities on other Himalayan peaks, highlighting ongoing risks despite favorable May weather windows. Over 300 people have died on Everest since the first successful ascent in 1953.

Eight people, including two women, were shot dead by unidentified gunmen at a tavern in Durban’s Umlazi township late Friday. Victims, aged 22 to 40, were found with multiple gunshot wounds. Police launched a manhunt and are investigating the motive. The attack underscores South Africa’s high levels of gun violence and murder, with about 75 murders daily and widespread illegal firearms. Recent incidents include family massacres, the abduction of a U.S. missionary, and the killing of soccer player Luke Fleurs.

Patrick Lutts Jr., wanted in Orlando, Florida, for manslaughter in a 1998 drunk-driving crash that killed two teenagers, was arrested in Toronto in February under the Canadian Extradition Act after living there openly for 21 years without legal status. Authorities located him following a 2023 anonymous tip to Florida Crime Stoppers. Lutts, who allegedly had a blood alcohol level over three times the legal limit at the time of the fatal crash, was also linked to a 2002 impaired driving incident in Connecticut and disappeared after missing a 2003 plea hearing. He is scheduled to appear in a Toronto court later this month.

British mountain guide Kenton Cool, 51, summited Mount Everest for the 19th time on Sunday, breaking his own record for the most ascents by a non-Sherpa climber. Cool first climbed Everest in 2004 and has returned nearly every year, missing seasons due to avalanches (2014, 2015) and the pandemic (2020). He is descending safely after the latest climb. Only Nepali Sherpa guides have more ascents; Kami Rita holds the overall record with 30 and is expected to climb again soon during the current spring season.

Calligraphy created by Korean independence hero Ahn Jung-geun while awaiting execution in 1910 is breaking auction records in South Korea, driven by wealthy buyers seeking to repatriate historic works. Ahn, who assassinated Japan’s former prime minister Ito Hirobumi in 1909, produced hundreds of calligraphy pieces in prison—often at the request of Japanese officials who later preserved them. Recent sales include “Green Bamboo,” symbolizing integrity, auctioned for 940 million won to the LS Group family, with plans to share it publicly, and a 2023 record sale at 1.95 billion won. The renewed interest highlights complex historical ties: Japan long labeled Ahn a terrorist, yet his works—emphasizing peace and ethics—were respected culturally. Ahn’s remains were never returned, and his legacy continues to influence Korean arts and national memory.

Mexican influencer Valeria Márquez, 23, was shot dead during a TikTok livestream at a beauty salon in Zapopan, Jalisco. Minutes earlier, she voiced fear after masked men posing as delivery workers tried to personally deliver her a “very expensive” gift. Prosecutors say the shooter appeared to be a hired hitman who didn’t know her, arriving on a motorcycle and confirming her identity before shooting her in the head and chest. Authorities are probing links to a separate same-day killing of a former congressman nearby and note the region’s cartel-driven violence, including common motorcycle “sicario” attacks. The case has intensified outrage over Mexico’s femicide crisis and growing risks to influencers amid organized crime. Investigators and Mexico’s president pledged to pursue the killer as speculation swirls about motives and possible ties to criminal groups.

Slovenian police are investigating the theft of a life-size bronze statue of Melania Trump from near her hometown of Sevnica. The statue, installed in 2020 to replace a wooden version that was burned that year, was reportedly sawed off at the ankles and removed. The original wooden statue, depicting her in her 2017 inaugural dress, drew mixed reactions; the bronze successor bore little resemblance to her. Authorities are working to identify the culprits.

Thai police arrested Abbot Phra Thammachiranuwat of Wat Rai Khing for allegedly embezzling over 300 million baht (about $9 million) in donor funds, which investigators say were funneled into an illegal online gambling network. He has been charged with corruption and malfeasance, and a second suspect was also arrested. The case has sparked public backlash and debate on social media about donating to temples and perceptions of Buddhist clergy. Local reports say the abbot has left the monkhood.

A memorial to LGBTQ victims of the Nazi regime and other persecutions was unveiled in Paris, designed by French artist Jean-Luc Verna. The steel star monument aims to fulfill a duty to remember and fight discrimination. Historians estimate 5,000-15,000 people were deported by the Nazis for being gay. The inauguration comes as LGBTQ rights face setbacks, including in the US under the Trump administration and in Hungary, where a constitutional amendment bans public LGBTQ events.

A 1999 manga by Ryo Tatsuki that appeared to “foretell” Japan’s March 2011 quake has resurfaced with a new “complete version” predicting a devastating July event, fueling superstition-driven trip cancellations across East and Southeast Asia—especially from mainland China and Hong Kong. Psychics and a Hong Kong feng shui master amplified fears online, leading some agencies to report sharp booking drops. Japanese authorities and seismologists stressed earthquakes cannot be accurately predicted, and Tatsuki herself urged people not to be overly swayed by her dreams. Despite the panic, Japan’s tourism remains robust, with record visitor numbers in early 2025 and strong growth from China and Hong Kong. Officials warn unscientific rumors are harming perceptions even as overall demand stays high.

China imposed final anti-dumping duties on imports of POM copolymers from the US, EU, Japan, and Taiwan, concluding a probe begun in May 2024. Rates include: US up to 74.9%; EU 34.5%; Japan 35.5% (Asahi Kasei 24.5%); Taiwan 32.6% (Formosa Plastics 4%, Polyplastics Taiwan 3.8%). POM copolymers are engineering plastics used in autos, electronics, and medical devices. The move follows heightened US tariffs on Chinese goods and comes amid a tentative US‑China tariff truce and mixed Chinese economic data showing slowing industrial output and retail sales.

Elon Musk’s xAI has built a massive AI data center in southwest Memphis, dubbed “Colossus,” promoted as the world’s most powerful supercomputer and a local economic boon. Residents of nearby Boxtown, a predominantly Black community already burdened by industrial pollution, say dozens of on-site gas turbines are worsening air quality and health risks. Aerial and thermal imagery suggest up to 35 turbines operated without air permits, seemingly relying on a temporary-use loophole that environmental groups argue doesn’t apply due to size and emissions. The turbines could emit up to 2,000 tons of nitrogen oxides annually, in a county already graded “F” for ozone and with high asthma rates. While xAI has applied for permits for 15 turbines and removed some others, community members and some lawmakers say they were blindsided and question regulatory oversight. Supporters, including the mayor, emphasize jobs and tax revenue, but opponents frame the project as environmental injustice amid weakened federal protections and surging AI power demand.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s new “Project Homecoming” conducted its first self-deportation flight, flying 64 migrants from the U.S. to Honduras and Colombia, including 38 Hondurans and up to 19 children—at least four of whom are U.S. citizens. Participants applied via the CBP Home app (formerly CBP One) and received $1,000 stipends per person, including children, plus travel assistance. DHS says the program aims to reduce deportation costs (averaging $17,000 per case) and offers a “dignified” departure, with participants deprioritized for detention if they show progress toward leaving. Officials warned that those who don’t self-deport face fines, arrest, deportation, and permanent bans. The initiative is part of a $200 million campaign urging undocumented migrants to leave and “stay out.”

A Lufthansa A321 from Frankfurt to Seville flew on autopilot without an active pilot for about 10 minutes on February 17, 2024, after the copilot fainted while alone in the cockpit. The captain, returning from the lavatory, received no response to door chimes or intercom and used an emergency code to re-enter and take control. The copilot was treated onboard by crew and a doctor passenger, regained consciousness, and was later hospitalized briefly. The flight diverted safely to Madrid. Spain’s accident authority (CIAIAC) found the copilot’s sudden incapacitation was due to an undiagnosed neurological condition not detected in medical exams; his medical certificate was suspended. CIAIAC labeled the event an extraordinary circumstance and noted that while rare, pilot incapacitations do occur, citing European and U.S. data. Lufthansa acknowledged the investigation but did not disclose its internal findings.

Colombian model and university student Maria Jose Estupiñan, 22, was shot dead at her home in Cúcuta on May 15 by a suspect disguised as a delivery driver, authorities said. She had previously reported domestic violence and was about to receive compensation. The killing, widely covered in local media, drew comparisons to the May 13 murder of Mexican influencer Valeria Márquez, shot during a TikTok livestream, and intensified condemnation of femicide and gender-based violence in Latin America. While officials did not confirm Estupiñan’s case as femicide, rights groups highlight rampant violence against women in Colombia, weak accountability, and rising insecurity in northeast regions around Cúcuta. Authorities are investigating.

World Press Photo has suspended its attribution of the iconic 1972 Vietnam War image “The Terror of War” (“Napalm Girl”) to AP photographer Nick Ut, citing significant doubt raised by new analyses and the documentary “The Stringer,” which suggests Vietnamese freelancer Nguyen Thanh Nghe may have taken the photo. The organization says visual/technical evidence, including camera-type questions and scene reconstructions of the photographer’s position and timing, leans toward Nghe but is not conclusive; it also notes a third possible author, military photographer Huynh Cong Phuc. The Associated Press, after a 96-page investigation, found no definitive evidence to change credit and argues Ut could have taken the shot; Pulitzer organizers likewise see insufficient proof to alter Ut’s prize. Ut rejects the claims as baseless, while World Press Photo will keep the attribution suspended pending clearer evidence.

At least 25 people were killed and dozens injured after tornadoes swept through Kentucky and Missouri. Kentucky reported 18 deaths, while Missouri reported seven, including five in St Louis. About 140,000 properties lost power, and roughly 5,000 buildings were damaged in Missouri, with widespread roof damage and downed power lines. St Louis imposed a night curfew, conducted house-to-house searches, and reported at least 38 injuries. The National Weather Service noted additional tornado activity in Illinois and warned of severe storms in northern Texas. The events occurred in “Tornado Alley,” where such storms are most common in May and June. Authorities expect the death toll to rise as search and rescue continue.

Austria’s JJ won Eurovision 2025 in Basel with Wasted Love, securing 436 points after a last-minute surge that overtook Israel’s Yuval Raphael (357) and Estonia’s Tommy Cash (356). It’s Austria’s third Eurovision victory. The UK’s Remember Monday finished 19th with 88 jury points and zero public points for the second year running. Israel’s participation drew protests; two people attempted to disrupt its performance but were removed. The night featured eclectic performances and chaotic voting: 13 finalists received at least one set of 12 jury points, Israel topped the public vote with 297, and Switzerland’s Zoë Më fell from second after juries to 10th with a public “nul points.”

A powerful car bomb exploded near the American Reproductive Centers fertility clinic in Palm Springs, killing one person and injuring four in what the FBI called an intentional act of terrorism. Authorities identified 25-year-old Guy Edward Bartkus as a person of interest; sources say he opposes population growth and IVF and left writings and recordings reflecting those views. The blast, felt over a mile away, severely damaged nearby buildings but did not harm clinic staff or compromise stored eggs and embryos. Officials are investigating whether the attack was domestic or international terrorism. The incident has reignited concerns over violence targeting reproductive health facilities amid ongoing political debates over fertility treatments.

Kenyan lawyer and former Justice Minister Martha Karua says she was detained and deported from Tanzania, along with two colleagues, after arriving to observe opposition leader Tundu Lissu’s treason case. Tanzanian authorities have not commented. Karua’s party says they faced hours of interrogation before expulsion. Human rights groups and Tanzania’s opposition party Chadema condemned the move, calling it part of a broader crackdown ahead of October elections. Lissu, a prominent government critic who survived a 2017 assassination attempt, was arrested in April after rallies demanding electoral reforms; he cannot seek bail on treason charges. Chadema has been barred from the election for refusing to sign an electoral code of conduct it says enables repression. Critics argue Tanzania is reverting to authoritarian practices despite earlier reforms under President Samia Suluhu Hassan, a claim the government denies.

Exit polls show Warsaw’s liberal mayor Rafal Trzaskowski leading Poland’s presidential race with 31.1%, narrowly ahead of conservative historian Karol Nawrocki at 29.1%, forcing a 1 June runoff. The presidency can veto legislation, making the result crucial for PM Donald Tusk’s coalition, which lacks a veto-proof majority. Trzaskowski pledges cooperation with Tusk to liberalize abortion laws and reform the judiciary; Nawrocki warns against Tusk consolidating power and courts far-right voters. Strong showings by far-right candidates Slawomir Mentzen (14.8%) and Grzegorz Braun (6.3%) complicate Trzaskowski’s path, as many of their supporters may favor Nawrocki or abstain. Mobilization and endorsements will be decisive in the second round.

Portugal’s centre-right Democratic Alliance, led by Luís Montenegro, won snap parliamentary elections but fell short of a majority. Socialist leader Pedro Nuno Santos resigned after the party fell to a close second, potentially slipping to third behind the far-right Chega once overseas votes are counted. Chega, led by André Ventura, celebrated a “historic” result, capitalizing on concerns over immigration and corruption after successive PM-related scandals. Montenegro pledged to boost investment and ensure prosperity and social justice, while Santos questioned his fitness for office amid controversies that triggered the election.

Argentina’s Abuelas de Plaza de Mayo are meeting EU officials in Brussels to seek support and funding for expanded DNA testing to identify children stolen during the 1976–83 dictatorship, many of whom may now live in Europe. Campaigners warn President Javier Milei’s government is dismantling key institutions and defunding efforts to locate the disappeared, including the National Commission for the Right to Identity and the national genetic data bank. Since the coup, about 30,000 people were killed or disappeared and at least 500 babies were taken from captive mothers; 139 “grandchildren” have been recovered so far. Advocates urge European cooperation, noting several recent identifications in EU countries and stressing that many potential victims—now aged 45–49—may be European citizens unaware of their true identities.

After an unusually dry spring with parts of the UK, northern France, the Low Countries and Germany receiving only about 10% of normal May rainfall, a shift in the polar jet stream is set to break persistent high pressure and bring widespread rain to north-western Europe. Strengthening Atlantic winds will drive in low-pressure systems, delivering frontal rainfall and cooler conditions, with possible thunderstorms in southern France and the Alps and some high-altitude snow by Friday. Meanwhile, southern and eastern Africa—especially South Africa, southern Mozambique and Madagascar—will see very unsettled weather, including cold southerly winds, mountain snowfall, temperatures 10–12C below average, and hazardous coastal conditions with gale-force winds and large waves.

France plans to add a maximum-security wing to a new $450m prison in Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni, French Guiana, near the former Devil’s Island penal colony, triggering local outrage. Justice minister Gérald Darmanin said the 60-cell unit—15 reserved for Islamic militants—would isolate drug traffickers from their networks, with priority placement for inmates from French Guiana and the French Caribbean. Local leaders, including Jean-Paul Fereira and MP Jean-Victor Castor, condemned the move as disrespectful, colonial, and made without consultation, arguing the 2017 agreement was to relieve overcrowding, not import high-risk prisoners. The prison is slated for completion by 2028 with capacity for 500 inmates.

Colombian model and influencer María José Estupiñán, 22, was shot dead at her home in Cúcuta by a suspect disguised as a delivery worker. Authorities are investigating it as a possible femicide, noting she had previously reported domestic violence and had just won a compensation ruling against her ex-partner. The killing has sparked national outrage and renewed criticism of Colombia’s failure to protect women, with activists calling it preventable and citing systemic impunity, inadequate protection orders, poor enforcement, and lack of resources. Colombia saw a seven-year high in femicides in 2024, with watchdogs reporting hundreds more in early 2025, and many cases remain unsolved. Protests are planned in Cúcuta and Bogotá demanding justice.

Japan’s government faces record-low approval ratings ahead of July elections as rice prices surge to about double last year’s levels. Voters blame Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba’s administration for inadequate action and largely support cutting the 10% consumption tax, especially on food. Efforts to release stockpiled rice and increase supplies—including bypassing wholesalers—have barely lowered prices, amid factors like tourism-driven demand, distribution bottlenecks, and suspected hoarding. Skepticism about US-Japan tariff talks and rising reliance on cheaper imports—from South Korea and upcoming US Calrose—add pressure on the ruling LDP, heightening internal calls for Ishiba’s ouster if losses mount.

Experts warn that U.S. tariffs on Chinese vapes under Trump are likely to divert large volumes of cheap Chinese e-cigarettes to the UK, Britain’s second-largest market for these products. This could undermine the UK’s 1 June ban on disposable vapes, as manufacturers push near-lookalike “vape kits” with rechargeable batteries, replaceable pods, and coils that meet the letter of the law but may still be treated and discarded like disposables. With over 90% of UK e-cigarettes imported from China, reduced U.S. access is expected to intensify competition and drive down prices. Researchers report blocked shipments and halved U.S. orders, prompting Chinese firms to seek quick workarounds and new markets, possibly relocating manufacturing longer term. Environmental groups say the ban won’t end “throwaway vaping” without better access to refills and easier recycling; retailers’ limited availability of refill pods could exacerbate waste, though major brands claim growing refill distribution.

A 74-year-old Scottish grandmother, Rose Docherty, was arrested under Scotland’s new Abortion Services (Safe Access Zones) Act for holding a sign near Glasgow’s Queen Elizabeth University Hospital reading, “Coercion is a crime, here to talk if you want.” She rejects a formal warning and says she’s willing to go to prison, arguing she didn’t violate the law and that authorities are suppressing dissenting views on abortion. The law bans protests within 200 meters of abortion facilities and could be expanded, a move backed by Green Party MSP Gillian Mackay amid complaints from patients and staff. The case follows other UK incidents, including arrests over silent prayer near clinics, fueling broader concerns about free speech restrictions.

Iran’s foreign minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi said Iran will continue uranium enrichment regardless of whether a new deal with the U.S. is reached, calling enrichment a hard-earned, sovereign right under the NPT. He said Iran is ready for serious talks to ensure it never obtains nuclear weapons but criticized public U.S. messaging. The comments follow President Trump’s claim the U.S. has proposed a deal and that time is short. A recent IAEA report shows Iran’s 60% enriched uranium stockpile has grown significantly, prompting warnings from U.S. officials that Iran is at the threshold of weapon capability.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un supervised air force drills, including anti-aircraft and air strike exercises by the 1st Air Division, and urged a “breakthrough in war preparation,” state media reported. Footage showed a MiG-29 launching what analysts say resembles a Russian-style mid- to long-range air-to-air missile. The activities follow recent missile tests, inspections of tank and munitions plants, and a visit to the Russian embassy, underscoring ties with Moscow. North Korea also condemned the U.S. for labeling it non-cooperative on counterterrorism, warning of “effective” countermeasures against U.S. “provocations.”

A bronze statue of Melania Trump in her hometown of Sevnica, Slovenia, was sawed off at the ankles and stolen, police said. The statue had replaced a wooden version that was burned in an arson attack in 2020. Both works were created by artist Brad Downey and local craftsman Ales “Maxi” Zupevc, modeled after Melania’s 2017 inauguration look. Local reaction was mixed, with some residents saying the likeness was unpopular. Police are investigating the vandalism and theft.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is aiming to deliver manifesto promises at a landmark UK‑EU summit by signing a new security and defence pact and improving post‑Brexit trade. While both sides agree on closer security cooperation—partly driven by the Ukraine war and uncertainty over US reliability—talks are going to the wire over fisheries access, checks on food and animal products (SPS), and a youth mobility scheme. The EU is linking eased SPS checks to longer fishing access, and pushing youth mobility, while the UK is wary due to domestic sensitivities, especially in Scotland, and potential criticism over regulatory alignment and EU contributions. A compromise may include reviving Erasmus. Even if trade issues are partly fudged, a security deal is expected, enabling UK industry access to the EU’s €150bn rearmament program and symbolizing a post‑Brexit reset—something Starmer needs as a political win.