In other news

Asia-Pacific markets were mixed as investors weighed an Israel-Iran ceasefire and U.S. policy signals. Japan’s Nikkei led gains (+1.6%), while South Korea’s Kospi and Hong Kong’s Hang Seng fell; China’s CSI 300 was flat. Asian currencies strengthened against the U.S. dollar amid easing Middle East tensions, with Taiwan’s dollar hitting its strongest since June 2022. Citi raised China’s 2025 GDP forecast to 5% and expects modest monetary and fiscal easing despite persistent deflation risks. Asian chip stocks advanced after Nvidia’s record close, while South Korean defense shares briefly rose on reported NATO cooperation. In Japan, rice prices eased below 4,000 yen per 5kg for the first time since March. Citi projects gold could drop over 20% in late 2025–2026 as U.S. growth sentiment improves. In the U.S., major indexes were little changed; Fed Chair Jerome Powell kept a cautious tone on inflation and tariffs, signaling rate cuts are possible if effects are temporary.

Chinese Premier Li Qiang urged the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) to align more closely with China’s Belt and Road and Global Development Initiatives, positioning the bank to deepen connectivity and development projects amid reduced U.S. support for institutions like the World Bank and IMF. Outgoing AIIB President Jin Liqun said China aims to improve Belt and Road quality and praised the AIIB’s standards; the bank assesses projects from its 110 members, with China holding a 26.5% voting share. The AIIB, which has approved over $60 billion since 2016 (including $8.4 billion last year), focuses on infrastructure lending. Zou Jiayi, former Chinese vice finance minister, will become AIIB president in January. Analysts see Li’s comments as part of China’s strategy to counter U.S. pressure on countries to distance from Beijing. Indonesia highlighted extensive AIIB collaboration, calling the bank a “global force for development.” Li also urged global leaders at “Summer Davos” to avoid politicizing trade.

The S&P 500 is nearing a record high despite ongoing uncertainties, including U.S. tariff threats and Middle East tensions. Nvidia reclaimed the title of most valuable company after a 4.3% surge, reflecting persistent AI-driven optimism. Trump threatened a tougher trade deal with Spain over defense spending, while China urged its AIIB-backed support for the Belt and Road Initiative. Markets show resilience, but risks remain that could derail gains. Separately, Japan’s rice prices eased as government reserves hit shelves, though consumers worry about quality.

Researchers found 30 online datasets containing roughly 16 billion login credentials across platforms like Apple, Google, and Facebook, likely harvested by “infostealer” malware. While many entries may be duplicates or outdated, the scale underscores a surge in infostealers that evade traditional defenses and fuel a booming cybercrime-as-a-service market. Recent campaigns have affected up to a million devices, with stolen data used for financial theft, identity fraud, and targeted phishing. Experts urge multi-factor authentication, frequent password changes, vigilance against malicious downloads, and zero-trust architectures for organizations. Authorities, including Europol, have begun disrupting major infostealer operations.

H&M reported Q2 FY25 revenue of 56.71 billion SEK, slightly below forecasts, with sales up 1% in local currencies. Operating profit was 5.9 billion SEK, meeting expectations. Results were pressured by a stronger U.S. dollar and higher freight costs, but the company expects these external cost factors to turn favorable in H2. June sales are projected to rise 3% in local currencies. H&M plans 200 store closures (mainly in mature markets) and 80 openings (in growth markets) in 2025. The retailer continues to face competition from Inditex, Shein, and Temu, and is monitoring trade tariffs and weak consumer sentiment while leveraging supply chain flexibility to adapt.

Japan’s rice crunch is easing as average supermarket prices for a 5-kg bag fell to 3,920 yen in mid-June—the first dip below 4,000 yen in about two months and nearer Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba’s target. Government stockpile releases and imports from the U.S. and South Korea have helped restock shelves, though supply recovery is uneven with some small stores still seeing shortages. Despite the improvement, prices remain high versus historical norms, and consumers question the taste and age of stockpiled rice, slowing declines in branded prices. The surge followed poor 2023 harvests and tourist-driven demand, with May prices more than doubling year-on-year. The Bank of Japan expects inflation pressures from rice to fade.

Asian chip stocks rose after Nvidia shares hit a record close and reclaimed the title of world’s most valuable company at $3.77 trillion. SK Hynix gained 3.53%, TSMC rose 0.47%, and Foxconn added 0.77%. In Japan, Advantest jumped 3.93% to a record, SoftBank rose 4.38%, while Tokyo Electron, Lasertec, and Renesas gained 2.13%, 1.57%, and 2.22%, respectively. Analysts said the rally reflects confidence in AI-driven demand and easing tariff concerns, with Nvidia’s strength lifting sector sentiment despite U.S. export curbs to China that have hit Nvidia’s sales and inventory.

OpenAI warned that Beijing-backed Zhipu AI is an emerging top rival, citing its rapid global expansion, deep ties to the Chinese government, and role in exporting AI infrastructure to governments across emerging markets. Founded in 2019 and reportedly backed with over $1.4 billion in state-linked funding, Zhipu operates in the Middle East, U.K., Singapore, and Malaysia, and runs innovation centers in Southeast Asia, aligning with China’s Digital Silk Road strategy to embed Chinese AI standards abroad. OpenAI contrasted Zhipu’s push with its own U.S.-supported initiatives, including a $200 million Pentagon contract and the $500 billion Stargate project, and noted reports of Zhipu’s work with China’s military, which led to its inclusion on the U.S. Entity List. Zhipu is also preparing for an IPO and was previously valued at about $2.78 billion.

Southeast Asia’s small businesses are rapidly adopting AI—especially generative AI—to stay competitive, with customer service, marketing, and multilingual content as leading use cases. BCG projects AI could add about $120 billion to the region’s GDP by 2027, while high AI interest and a young, tech-savvy entrepreneur base (notably in Vietnam, Malaysia, and the Philippines) support adoption. Examples include Indonesia’s Lita Global, which uses OpenAI models to translate promotions, run AI-assisted chat replies that lift orders 10%–20%, and scale events that boost revenue; AI livestreaming is also emerging as a cost-effective sales channel. However, costs remain a barrier: while basic chatbots are affordable, advanced integrations are expensive, with some firms spending thousands monthly on APIs. Prices are expected to fall sharply by 2027, potentially widening access. Despite low labor costs in the region, experts argue AI delivers superior outcomes and is becoming essential for survival against larger, tech-enabled competitors.

U.S. stock futures edged higher early Thursday, with the S&P 500 and Nasdaq 100 up modestly and the Dow slightly positive, as the S&P 500 sits less than 1% below its record. Wednesday’s session saw the S&P flat, Nasdaq up 0.3%, and Dow down 0.3%, with all three still on track for weekly gains. Caution persists amid geopolitical and policy risks: tensions between Israel and Iran appear to be easing under a tentative ceasefire, while concerns linger over the inflation impact of President Trump’s tariffs and fiscal policies. Markets await Friday’s PCE inflation report, which Fed Chair Jerome Powell signaled could rise to 2.3% headline and 2.6% core, reinforcing expectations for higher yields that could pressure tech shares. Weekly jobless claims arrive Thursday. After-hours movers included Micron (up on strong results and guidance), H.B. Fuller (up on earnings beat and outlook), and Kratos (down on a $500 million stock offering). Wall Street also reacted negatively to Zohran Mamdani’s NYC mayoral primary win, citing fears of higher taxes and regulation. Walgreens reports Thursday morning; Nike after the close.

The Trump Organization removed “Made in the USA” claims from its T1 smartphone website, replacing them with phrases like “American-Proud Design” and “brought to life right here in the USA,” amid skepticism the $499 device can be manufactured domestically. Experts say the phone is likely produced in China due to supply chain realities, though a Trump Mobile spokesperson insisted it is made in America. The T1’s listed specs were also downgraded after announcement, including a screen change from 6.8-inch to 6.25-inch AMOLED and the removal of a 12GB RAM claim. The shifts come as President Trump pushes for more U.S.-based tech manufacturing, including smartphones.

Shell denied reports it’s in talks to acquire BP for around $80 billion, saying it has no intention to bid and is focused on capital discipline. BP, seen as a takeover target after underperformance, declined to comment. Analysts question the logic of a Shell-BP merger, citing limited growth benefits, cultural differences, potential job losses, and significant antitrust hurdles, though some note value could exist at the right price with cost cuts and asset sales. BP is attempting a strategic reset to bolster investor confidence; its shares are down over 6% year-to-date, while Shell’s are up about 4%.

The article reports that millions of Americans, particularly in poverty-heavy West Virginia, are bracing for cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) included in President Trump’s “big beautiful” budget bill. While Trump claims spending cuts will lower grocery prices and strengthen SNAP through cost-sharing and work requirements, food prices have risen, and the bill proposes $211bn in cuts with states expected to fill gaps. The move faces internal Republican tensions, as SNAP and Medicaid remain broadly popular, and some GOP lawmakers warn of political backlash. Residents reliant on SNAP describe struggling to afford food even with assistance, highlighting fears that cuts will deepen hardship amid high costs.

Denis Villeneuve has been named director and executive producer of the next James Bond film by Amazon MGM Studios. A lifelong 007 fan, the Dune and Blade Runner 2049 filmmaker says he aims to honor the franchise’s tradition while paving the way for future installments. No casting details were revealed, with the search for Daniel Craig’s successor ongoing amid rumors around Aaron Taylor-Johnson, James Norton, and Paul Mescal. Villeneuve, lauded for Arrival, Sicario, and the Dune films, is expected to begin shooting Dune Messiah later this year, potentially releasing in 2026. Timing for the next Bond film remains unclear.

Protesters in Venice are claiming victory after Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez shifted the main celebration of their multi-day wedding from the central Scuola Grande della Misericordia to the Arsenale. Activist groups opposing over-tourism, climate impacts, and billionaire excess said their actions pressured the move, while city officials criticized the protests and emphasized the event’s economic benefits. The star-studded wedding is expected to bring private jets, yachts, and heavy security, spotlighting tensions over Venice’s tourism burden and inequality. Some planned disruptive protests were canceled, but demonstrations and projections are set to continue.

At least eight people were killed and about 400 injured as largely Gen Z-led protests against President William Ruto’s government erupted across Kenya, including Nairobi, on the anniversary of last year’s deadly demonstrations. Protesters chanted “Ruto must go” and attempted to march toward State House and parliament, met by police using tear gas, water cannons, barricades, and razor wire. A court overturned a government ban on live media coverage. Civil society groups reported gunshot injuries among civilians and noted injured police. Demonstrators cited frustration over governance, economic conditions, and education, urging leaders to listen. Ruto, speaking from Kilifi, called for peaceful conduct and stability.

India is celebrating the launch of Axiom-4 (Ax-4), which includes Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla as pilot, making him the second Indian in space and the first to visit the International Space Station. The SpaceX Crew Dragon mission, led by veteran astronaut Peggy Whitson and also carrying astronauts from Poland and Hungary, marks India’s return to human spaceflight after 41 years. ISRO paid 5bn rupees for Shukla’s seat and training, aiming to boost its Gaganyaan program, a planned space station by 2035, and a lunar astronaut mission by 2040. During a two-week stay on the ISS, the crew will conduct 60 experiments, including seven from India, focusing on seed viability in space, microalgae growth for food/fuel/life support, tardigrade survival, muscle loss in microgravity, and cognitive effects of screen use. Shukla, a 39-year-old Indian Air Force pilot with 2,000+ flight hours, will also interact with Indian students and potentially with the prime minister.

The Wellcome Trust has committed an initial £10m to launch the Synthetic Human Genome Project, aiming to build increasingly large sections of human DNA—ultimately a full chromosome—from scratch. Researchers say the work could accelerate therapies for incurable diseases, enable disease-resistant cells to repair organs, and advance understanding of how genes function. The project, limited to lab settings without creating synthetic life, builds on the Human Genome Project’s achievements. Critics warn of risks including potential misuse for enhanced humans, biological weapons, and commercial exploitation. Wellcome argues early, responsible development with parallel social science oversight will help address ethical and public concerns.

Thailand plans to tighten its loosely regulated cannabis market, limiting consumption to medical use with a doctor’s prescription and potentially recriminalizing recreational use. Since decriminalization in 2022, about 11,000 dispensaries have opened, fueling a glut of potent, cheaply grown cannabis and a surge in smuggling to the UK. UK authorities report a sharp rise in Thai-sourced cannabis couriers, with hundreds arrested and significant prison sentences imposed. Thailand’s weak penalties and lack of a finalized regulatory framework have created a “weed wild west,” attracting foreign syndicates and depressing prices, which incentivizes smuggling. Proposed rules aim to curb supply and demand and refocus on medical use, but small growers warn sudden restrictions will crush legitimate businesses and won’t stop illegal operators. Thai and UK authorities are coordinating to deter smuggling while Thailand works toward clearer regulation.

Florida is converting the largely abandoned Dade-Collier Training and Transition Airport in the Everglades into a 1,000-bed migrant detention center dubbed “Alligator Alcatraz,” citing the swamp’s isolation as a security advantage. Initiated under Gov. Ron DeSantis via a 2023 emergency order and aligned with President Trump’s mass deportation push, the facility is slated to open in July or August and may be replicated at Camp Blanding. The project, to be federally funded via FEMA, faces strong criticism from environmental groups, the Miccosukee community, Miami-Dade’s mayor, and the ACLU, citing ecological risks, harsh conditions, and due process concerns amid record-high ICE detainee numbers. Authorities promote it as a rapid, cost-effective expansion of detention capacity.

Researchers have re-dated a mammoth-ivory boomerang found in Poland’s Oblazowa Cave to 39,000–42,000 years old, making it the world’s oldest known boomerang and older than previously thought. Crafted with notable skill by early Homo sapiens, the curved, non-returning tool likely served in hunting and may have held cultural or ritual significance. The find broadens the geographical and historical context of boomerangs—often associated with Australia—showing their use across continents long before Australia’s oldest known examples. The study appears in PLOS One.

Twenty-five years after Zimbabwe’s violent land seizures, the government has begun compensating displaced white farmers for infrastructure (not land) with a controversial package: 1% in cash and the rest in 10-year US dollar bonds at 2% interest. Of an estimated $3.5bn owed, just $3.1m has been paid to 378 farms. A minority of elderly, financially strained farmers have accepted; most, led by Deon Theron, reject the bonds and want upfront cash and UK involvement, citing doubts the bonds will be honored. War veterans are also split: some support compensation, while others are suing, calling the payout excessive amid national hardship. A new policy allowing title deeds for black farmers—at $100–$500 per hectare to help fund compensation—has sparked further legal challenges. Outcomes of land reform remain mixed: many struggled initially, but parts of the sector are rebounding, exemplified by families like the Ganyes who have built successful tobacco, dairy, and livestock operations and support the reform. The issue remains politically and economically divisive, with competing demands for restitution, fiscal realism, and agricultural revival.

David Webb, a British-born investor who became a leading corporate governance watchdog in Hong Kong, spent three decades exposing opaque ownership structures, market manipulation, and tycoon influence, most notably through his “Enigma Network” report linking 50 companies. He built Webb-site, a widely used public database of company and director information, and pushed regulators and the stock exchange for transparency and minority shareholder rights, serving as a long-time adviser to the Securities and Futures Commission. After a metastatic prostate cancer diagnosis and a prognosis of months to live, Webb is winding down his site amid Hong Kong’s tightened access to corporate data and a broader national security crackdown that has chilled criticism. Attempts to transfer the database, including to the University of Hong Kong, failed over political concerns. Webb, who also advocated for democratic reform, reflects on a legacy of policy impact rather than wealth, as supporters hail him as the conscience of Hong Kong’s markets despite debates over regulatory intensity.

Bill Moyers, former press secretary and close aide to President Lyndon B. Johnson who became a signature voice of American public television, died at 91. Present on Air Force One when Johnson was sworn in after JFK’s assassination, he helped shape the Great Society and later broke with Johnson amid tensions over Vietnam and denied roles. An ordained Baptist minister, Moyers spent four decades in broadcast journalism, primarily on PBS, examining money in politics, inequality, civil rights, and democratic norms. Known for his thoughtful, values-driven interviews and acclaimed documentaries—including the widely watched “Joseph Campbell and the Power of Myth”—he won more than 30 Emmys and drew both praise as a moral conscience and criticism from conservatives for bias. Raised in modest circumstances in Texas, he began in journalism, helped found the Peace Corps, and remained a complex, influential figure who preferred spotlighting “regular people” while avoiding deep scrutiny of his own life. He died in Manhattan, confirmed by his son.

Retiree Steve Mills, who collects childhood books to rekindle memories, bought a batch of secondhand Enid Blyton titles and discovered one annotated by a child—his wife, Karen—over 50 years ago. The book, from her Staffordshire childhood home and likely donated in the 1970s, had traveled roughly 170 miles before resurfacing near their home in Hockley, England. Further inspection revealed two more books from the same haul with Karen’s and her brother’s doodles. The serendipitous find, echoing other rare charity-shop reunions, turned Mills’s nostalgic quest into a rediscovery of his wife’s past—and a new mission to locate the remaining nine Blyton books she once owned.

In 1969, Nikiski, Alaska, shipped the United States’ first liquefied natural gas (LNG) to Japan, pioneering a trans-Pacific trade that helped fuel Japan’s postwar growth and laid the groundwork for today’s $130 billion global LNG market. For over four decades, the Nikiski plant supplied Tokyo Gas and Tokyo Electric, becoming the U.S.’s lone LNG export facility while Asia grew into the world’s largest LNG-importing region. After U.S. shale unlocked vast gas reserves, the country became the top LNG exporter by 2023, but Alaska’s Cook Inlet reserves waned and the Nikiski plant shut in 2017. A proposed revival, the Alaska LNG project—backed recently by the Trump administration and a new developer—aims to pipe northern Alaska gas to a new Nikiski export terminal, but faces steep costs and competition from Gulf Coast projects.

The article details how Republican-led federal funding cuts are hitting Johns Hopkins University, the nation’s largest recipient of federal research dollars. Despite efforts to broaden viewpoint diversity and partner with conservative institutions, Johns Hopkins has already laid off over 2,000 people after an $800 million research cut and faces deeper reductions to its $4.2 billion in annual federal research support. Key impacts include: termination of USAID-backed global health programs (over 2,200 jobs lost, with feared public health consequences abroad); cancellation of about 90 NIH/NSF grants totaling $50 million; proposed sharp reductions to federal “overhead” reimbursements that could cost the university over $300 million; potential increases in endowment taxes (4–7%) that could erode student financial aid; and broader threats to NIH funding by up to 40%. Faculty warn that these moves undermine a post–World War II federal-university partnership that fueled U.S. scientific leadership, with potential long-term damage to research in cancer, public health, physics, and space exploration, and to America’s global talent magnetism.

The Justice Department opened an investigation into the University of California’s “UC 2030 Capacity Plan,” alleging it may impose race- and sex-based employment quotas and thus violate civil rights laws. The plan, a three-year-old document aimed at expanding enrollment and reflecting California’s diversity, sets goals like increasing doctoral students from minority-serving institutions to over 40% by 2030 but does not specify quotas. The move follows a separate federal action ordering California to reverse policies allowing transgender girls in female sports. It also fits broader Trump administration efforts scrutinizing higher education on civil rights and funding, including probes into compliance with the Supreme Court’s 2023 ban on race-conscious admissions. California has banned affirmative action in public university admissions since 1996. UC did not immediately comment.

The Justice Department signaled it plans to deport Kilmar Armando Abrego Garcia again—potentially to a third country—less than three weeks after returning him from a wrongful deportation to face U.S. criminal charges for alleged human smuggling. DOJ lawyer Jonathan Guynn told a judge there were no imminent removal plans but confirmed the intent to expel him, creating confusion as courts weigh his release from criminal custody and his immigration case. A Tennessee judge ordered his release from criminal custody, criticizing potential removal before trial as revealing administration priorities. The move clashes with earlier DOJ claims and Attorney General Pam Bondi’s public emphasis on prosecuting Abrego Garcia. The prospect of third-country deportation follows a Supreme Court ruling allowing removals to nations other than a migrant’s home country, even without prior torture-risk assessments. A White House spokeswoman later dismissed reports of the DOJ statements as “fake news.”

A long-stalled $44 billion plan to export Alaskan liquefied natural gas has become a flagship of the Trump administration’s fossil-fuel agenda, centering on the small town of Nikiski on the Kenai Peninsula. The project would build an 800-mile pipeline from northern gas fields to a new export terminal in Nikiski to ship LNG to Japan and other Asian buyers. Locals see it as an economic lifeline after decades of decline as nearby oil and gas reserves dwindled, shuttering plants and hollowing out businesses. Interest has revived under Trump, with developer Glenfarne citing more than 50 prospective customers and Thailand’s PTT signing a 20-year procurement deal. Still, many residents remain skeptical given past false starts and the project’s enormous costs, even as they hope cheaper gas could lure industry back and revitalize the community.

The Trump administration directed Republicans to remove a “revenge tax” from their tax and spending bill that would have targeted foreign companies from countries implementing the global minimum tax or digital services taxes. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the U.S. reached a G7 deal exempting American companies from the global minimum tax, reversing Biden-era commitments and asserting U.S. tax sovereignty. Business groups and Wall Street had warned the revenge tax—expected to raise over $50 billion in a decade—would deter foreign investment and harm U.S. workers. While not addressing digital services taxes directly, Bessent signaled the U.S. would push back against taxes it views as discriminatory. The move comes amid broader concerns about demand for U.S. assets as the administration pursues high tariffs and large bond issuance.

Senate Republicans are advancing a revised plan to cut federal food assistance (SNAP) to help finance large tax cuts backed by President Trump, shifting costs to states based on error rates starting in 2028. The move follows a parliamentarian-approved tweak after initial procedural roadblocks. Democrats warn millions could lose benefits; a prior CBO analysis of the House version estimated $285 billion in SNAP savings over nine years and potential monthly benefit losses for 1.3 million people, with some states possibly dropping SNAP altogether. Separately, the House Judiciary Committee subpoenaed Harvard for documents on tuition and financial aid amid a broader GOP push against elite universities; Harvard called the subpoena unwarranted, saying it already produced thousands of pages.

At the World Economic Forum’s “Summer Davos” in Tianjin, Unitree CEO Wang Xingxing announced the humanoid robotics start-up surpassed 1 billion yuan (US$139.4 million) in annual revenue. He and other panelists credited China’s advantages—robust data infrastructure, mature supply chains, government support, strong talent pools, and a vast domestic market—for accelerating AI and robotics growth. Cheung Kong Graduate School of Business dean Li Haitao said the next decade’s AI leadership will likely be shared by only two countries: the US and China.

China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi told EU envoys in Beijing that China and the EU should build mutual trust, manage differences, and deepen cooperation to stabilize global affairs and elevate their comprehensive strategic partnership. The meeting at the Polish embassy came before Poland’s EU presidency ends and ahead of a late-July China-EU summit in Beijing marking 50 years of ties. Both sides recently agreed to new trade talks amid escalating disputes over market access, rare earths, and electric vehicles; Taiwan and other sensitive issues were also discussed.

The head of the U.S. Space Force, Gen. Stephen Whiting, warned that China is advancing “breathtakingly fast” in space military technology, creating strategic risks for the U.S. He highlighted three areas of concern, led by Beijing’s space-based targeting systems designed to locate, track, and strike U.S. and allied forces across the Indo-Pacific—part of a broader “space-based kill chain.” His remarks, reported by Breaking Defense, come as space capabilities increasingly shape modern warfare, citing recent U.S. operations such as strikes in Iran.

A 20-year-old University of Cyberjaya student, Maniishapriet Kaur Akhara, was found murdered in her dorm with fatal head injuries, prompting widespread fear among students and renewed scrutiny of lax security in Cyberjaya’s largely unmonitored student housing. Police reported no signs of forced entry and ruled out sexual assault amid social media rumors, saying arrests are imminent. The case has reignited concerns about Cyberjaya’s crime reputation, even as the township seeks revival through data centre investments tied to Malaysia’s digital infrastructure ambitions.

Hong Kong will launch its own drug review and approval system in phases starting in 2026, with a new regulator—the Hong Kong Centre for the Medical Products Regulation—set to be operational by late 2026. Using a “primary evaluation” approach first proposed in 2023, authorities aim to accelerate access to new medications and position the city as an international hub for health and medical innovation, according to Director of Health Dr Ronald Lam.

Five years after Hong Kong’s national security law, authorities and pro-establishment figures say stability has returned and the policy focus has shifted to economic growth and livelihood issues. Yet the law’s reach continues to shape daily life and culture, with “soft resistance” seen as the next challenge. The case of former district councillor and theatre worker Katrina Chan—arrested for alleged seditious materials, not charged, but facing job loss and industry blacklisting—illustrates how legal pressure and self-censorship affect civil society and the arts. While the government emphasizes a new phase centered on development, critics point to chilling effects, ongoing arrests, and the normalization of precautionary measures by institutions seeking to “play safe.”

Hong Kong boy band Mirror, once hailed as Cantopop’s revival during the pandemic, is struggling to sustain momentum amid fiercer competition from diverse online entertainment and a weaker local showbiz ecosystem. Industry observers say the group’s rapid rise outpaced the support and structured training typical of K-pop, exposing human vulnerabilities and developmental gaps. Renewed scrutiny followed member Keung To’s recent fall into the sea after mixing alcohol and painkillers, prompting questions about pressure, support systems, and the sustainability of Mirror’s early “amateur charm.” While individual members remain active across music, acting, and variety shows, analysts argue they need stronger backing and evolution to thrive beyond their initial pandemic-era surge.

Malaysia’s Islamist party PAS condemned as racist a Facebook post by grassroots leader Zaharudin Muhammad that speculated about Malaysia having its first ethnic Chinese prime minister and featured a photo of Johnny Lim Eng Seng, newly promoted to three-star lieutenant-general. PAS said the post violated its principles of racial and religious diversity. Lim’s promotion marks a historic first for an ethnic Chinese officer in Malaysia’s Malay-Muslim–dominated armed forces, which have struggled to recruit from minority communities.

The White House says the U.S. and China reached a framework “understanding” to expedite rare earth shipments to the U.S., implementing terms discussed in Geneva last month. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick said China will deliver rare earths and the U.S. will remove countermeasures in response. The announcement followed President Donald Trump’s comment that the U.S. had “just signed” a deal with China, though he provided no details.

A Henley & Partners report projects a 10-year low in emigration by wealthy mainland Chinese in 2025, with net outflows dropping to 7,800 from 15,200 in 2024. Drivers include an improving domestic business environment, the rise of tech hubs like Shenzhen and Hangzhou, and growth in private banking, healthcare, and entertainment. Growing uncertainties around overseas study for Chinese students are also discouraging moves. Meanwhile, Hong Kong is set to see a net inflow of about 800 millionaires, many from Asian tech firms. Globally, a record 142,000 millionaires are expected to relocate, with the UK forecast to have the largest net outflow (16,500).

Bill Moyers, a former Baptist minister and Peace Corps deputy who became President Lyndon B. Johnson’s press secretary and one of public television’s most honored journalists, has died at 91 in New York after a long illness. Renowned for his thoughtful, probing interviews and wide-ranging PBS work, Moyers produced acclaimed series on politics, myth, health, media, religion, and the environment, including The Secret Government, Joseph Campbell and the Power of Myth, and Healing and the Mind. A self-described “citizen journalist,” he favored public broadcasting’s independence over commercial constraints, earning more than 30 Emmys, 11 Peabodys, and induction into the Television Hall of Fame. After early careers in ministry, the Peace Corps, and the Johnson White House—where he later distanced himself over the Vietnam War—Moyers led Newsday to two Pulitzers, served at CBS, and, with his wife Judith, founded Public Affairs Television to fund and produce influential documentaries and series.

Kenya’s Faith Kipyegon narrowly missed becoming the first woman to run a sub-4-minute mile, clocking a personal-best 4:06.91 at Nike’s exhibition “Breaking4” event in Paris, which wouldn’t have qualified for an official record. Supported by extensive pacers and advanced gear, she faded in the final half lap but said the attempt proves the barrier is possible and could be broken soon. Kipyegon is a three-time Olympic 1500m champion and 2024 Olympic 5000m silver medalist.

Michelle Obama, speaking with NPR’s Rachel Martin, addressed rumors about her marriage to Barack Obama, saying speculation arose because the couple doesn’t share their private lives online: “We’re 60… you’re not gonna know what we’re doing every minute.” She explained recent choices to skip high-profile events like Donald Trump’s inauguration and Jimmy Carter’s funeral as part of redefining her life on her own terms, accepting any backlash without regret. Now co-hosting a podcast with her brother, she said she’s finally prioritizing her own ambitions after years of putting family and “team” goals first. Reflecting on mortality, she said she wants her remaining “25 more summers” to feel slow, intentional, and personal. She also shared a poignant lesson from her late mother, who, despite being prepared for death, confided near the end that “life… went fast,” reinforcing Obama’s commitment to savoring time and living by her own choices.

After signs appeared in national parks inviting visitors to report displays “negative about past or living Americans” per a March executive order from President Trump, public feedback largely ignored the request. Comments reviewed by NPR did not call for removing or changing “negative” historical content; many praised park interpretation or urged more inclusion of difficult histories involving Black and Indigenous people. While the Interior Department cited unrelated accuracy fixes prompted by public tips, critics warned the open feedback system could be gamed. Interior says comments are manually reviewed and vetted by experts. Overall, visitors showed little appetite for sanitizing park history.

Prosecutors delivered closing arguments in Sean “Diddy” Combs’ federal sex trafficking and racketeering conspiracy trial, asserting he ran a yearslong criminal enterprise that used violence, power, and fear to coerce ex-girlfriends Cassie Ventura and a woman known as “Jane” into orchestrated sexual encounters with male escorts. They detailed patterns of control, physical abuse, heavy drug use, and threats of blackmail via explicit videos, arguing only one coerced incident per victim is required for conviction. Evidence highlighted included hotel security footage of Combs assaulting Ventura during a 2016 “freak-off” and messages and recordings showing Jane’s objections amid financial leverage and pressure. Combs has pleaded not guilty; the defense concedes domestic violence in the hotel video but denies it proves sex trafficking. Prosecutors urged jurors to find him guilty.

The Trump administration sued all 15 federal judges in Maryland to overturn a district-wide order that temporarily halts deportations for migrants who file habeas petitions, arguing it violates Supreme Court precedent and impedes executive authority over immigration. The order, issued by Chief Judge George L. Russell III, pauses removals until 4 p.m. on the second business day to preserve court jurisdiction and access to counsel amid reports of rapid transfers and removals. Legal scholars called the lawsuit extraordinary and a break with norms, noting parties typically appeal injunctions rather than sue judges. The move escalates ongoing clashes between the administration and the judiciary over immigration enforcement and judicial oversight.

Pew Research Center’s post-2024 analysis finds Donald Trump would still have won the presidency even with full voter turnout. While 64% of eligible voters participated (second-highest since 1904), Pew’s validated voter survey indicates that if all eligible voters had cast ballots, Trump would have led 48%-45% over Kamala Harris. Nonvoters said they would have favored Trump 44%-40%, reversing patterns from 2016 and 2020 when nonvoters leaned Democratic. Trump’s 2024 coalition became more diverse and younger (78% white vs. 88% in 2016), while Harris’ coalition was comparatively whiter. Trump retained 85% of his 2020 voters versus Harris retaining 79% of Biden’s, won more 2020 nonvoters who turned out in 2024 (52%-45%), and, among all eligible adults (voters and nonvoters), edged Harris 32%-31%.

A bright daytime fireball was seen across the Southeast U.S., especially Georgia and South Carolina, around 12:30 p.m., likely a meteor or space debris, according to the National Weather Service. Over 140 reports were filed with the American Meteor Society, and cameras captured the event. In Henry County, Georgia, a suspected fragment pierced a roof, leaving a golf ball–sized hole and floor damage after a sonic boom. NASA notes such bright fireballs are rare in daylight, and most objects break up before reaching the ground. Emergency officials are investigating the reported fallen object southeast of Atlanta.

NPR’s Wild Card Video Episodes is a series of candid conversations hosted by Rachel Martin with artists, writers, comedians, and actors about creativity, identity, aging, failure, and meaning. Recent guests include Michelle Obama on integrating public and private life and setting boundaries; Jason Reynolds on solitude and emotional honesty; Orville Peck on sobriety and mystery; Ramy Youssef on mortality and making what entertains him; Mike Birbiglia on family influences; Jonathan Groff on embracing criticism; Wanda Sykes on staying funny and grounded; “Weird Al” Yankovic on aging into dorkiness; Joy Harjo on second chances through writing; Brett Goldstein on loving imperfect people; Julianne Nicholson on grief and humor; Elizabeth Olsen on taste and mortality; John Green on fighting despair; Uzo Aduba on motherhood and rejecting destiny; Natasha Rothwell on the spiritual power of improv; Zadie Smith on time and aging; Natalie Morales on rejecting “shoulds”; Ronny Chieng on the upside of early setbacks; Ke Huy Quan on shifting self-worth post-Oscar; and Jesse Eisenberg on failure and ambition. The series spotlights personal philosophies, career detours, and the emotional lives behind public personas.

The article argues that venture capital valuations for AI startups have become detached from traditional financial metrics, driven more by hype and expectation than revenues, profits, or clear business models. In Silicon Valley, just as “vibe coding” lets developers quickly build software with generative AI, “vibe valuing” sees investors conjure sky-high prices for companies based on speculative future potential—sometimes implying imminent superintelligence. The piece warns that such exuberance is unsustainable unless extraordinary technological and commercial breakthroughs arrive soon, and implies a correction is likely if fundamentals don’t catch up.

Kering, the luxury group behind Gucci, has brought in Luca de Meo—best known for turning around carmakers like Renault—to help revive its struggling brands. The move reflects a broader trend of companies seeking outside, cross-industry leaders to shake up underperforming businesses. De Meo faces steep challenges: Gucci’s momentum has faltered amid creative misfires, tougher competition (notably from LVMH), and a cooling luxury market. His mandate likely includes sharpening brand positioning, accelerating product cycles, tightening execution, and driving operational discipline across Kering’s portfolio. Whether an automotive-style turnaround playbook can revive a fashion house remains uncertain—but the choice signals Kering’s willingness to break with tradition to regain growth and credibility.

OnlyFans, founded in 2016 and now reportedly seeking an $8bn sale, has become a dominant force in online adult content with over 4m creators and 300m paying fans. Generating $1.3bn in revenue in the 12 months to November 2023 and boasting operating margins around 50%, it outperforms many tech giants. Beyond its financial success, the platform has reshaped the porn industry by enabling creators to monetize directly, altering how adult content is produced, distributed, and consumed.

Chinese consumer brands are surging at home and abroad, exemplified by Pop Mart’s wildly popular Labubu dolls. Demand is so strong that buyers face long waits and rare editions fetch auction prices as high as $150,000. The craze has celebrity endorsements from figures like David Beckham and Rihanna, signaling global appeal. Beyond toys, the boom reflects a broader rise of Chinese brands that combine savvy design, hype-driven retail (such as blind-box mechanics), and competitive pricing to win customers and cultural relevance worldwide.

Bertelsmann, the German media giant that owns Penguin Random House and BMG, is set to return to family leadership after four decades under external CEOs. One of two brothers from the founding family is poised to take the helm, marking a surprising turn in a long-running family saga and reversing the common corporate trajectory of handing control to hired managers.

The piece satirizes the universal dysfunction of conference panels and distills three rules: moderators are underprepared and overconfident; panelists default to jargon, self-promotion, and safe platitudes; and audiences endure performative dialogue that yields little insight. It argues most panels waste time due to vague topics, poor curation, and lack of disagreement, and suggests better prep, sharper questions, fewer speakers, and real debate as remedies.

Victoria’s Secret, once the dominant lingerie brand, is struggling to revamp its image and business, drawing pressure from activist investor Barington Capital. In a June 16 open letter, Barington criticized the company’s performance, governance, and leadership, claiming CEO Hillary Super has not earned employee confidence and that the firm is failing shareholders. The brand’s broader reinvention—shifting away from its hyper-sexualized past toward inclusivity—has yet to deliver clear financial or cultural stability, testing investor patience as competitors gain ground.

Gunmen opened fire during a religious festival in Irapuato, Guanajuato, killing 11 people—including a 17-year-old—and injuring at least 20. The attack occurred during celebrations for the Nativity of John the Baptist, causing chaos as residents rushed victims to hospitals. Authorities condemned the “cowardly” act, launched a manhunt, and are providing support to victims’ families. Guanajuato, Mexico’s deadliest state, has been plagued by violent turf battles, particularly between the Santa Rosa de Lima gang and the Jalisco New Generation Cartel. The state recorded over 3,000 murders last year and continues to see mass killings and discoveries of bodies amid ongoing cartel violence.

A diver working on a water pipeline in Dubrovnik’s old port accidentally discovered a wooden shipwreck buried less than three feet beneath the seabed. Radiocarbon dating indicates the vessel dates to the late 18th century. Located by the medieval walls of Dubrovnik—a UNESCO site and “Game of Thrones” filming location—the remains have been secured for further study in coordination with Croatia’s Ministry of Culture. The find comes shortly after another accidental discovery of a 16th-century merchant ship deep off southern France.

Two 4-year-old brown bears, Mish and Lucy, briefly escaped their enclosure at Wildwood Devon in southwest England, raided the park’s food store, and ate a week’s supply of honey along with other snacks before falling asleep. The park said the bears posed no public threat; visitors were escorted to safety as a precaution while staff monitored the bears via CCTV and used recall training to guide them back within an hour. Police attended, and the park attributed the escape to an “operational error,” launching an internal investigation. Mish and Lucy, rescued in Albania as abandoned cubs, have lived at Wildwood since 2021.

Venezuela’s prosecutor’s office has opened an investigation into the livestreamed killing of TikTok creator Jesús Sarmiento, who had publicly denounced the Tren de Aragua gang and alleged police corruption. Sarmiento, with nearly 80,000 followers, was shot by armed men who broke into his residence, with parts of the attack captured on video. Authorities said he had reported threats from organized crime and purported police officers, and had accused police units of kidnapping and extortion in recent posts. Despite government claims that Tren de Aragua no longer exists, the U.S. has a $5 million reward for its leader, “Niño Guerrero.” Sarmiento’s death follows other recent killings of social media figures in Pakistan and Mexico.

A Japanese court convicted U.S. Marine Lance Cpl. Jamel Clayton, 22, of sexually assaulting and injuring a woman in Okinawa in May 2024, sentencing him to seven years in prison. The court deemed the victim’s anonymous testimony highly credible despite Clayton’s denial; prosecutors had sought 10 years, and his lawyers may appeal. The case has intensified anger on Okinawa, which hosts the majority of U.S. military facilities in Japan, amid broader concerns over crime, safety, and the Status of Forces Agreement. Japanese officials have urged stricter discipline and prevention, and disclosed that over 300 cases involving U.S. service members were dropped between 2014 and 2024.

The U.S. State Department announced a $5 million reward for information on Afghan-American Mahmood Habibi, who was abducted in Kabul in 2022. Habibi, a telecom employee, was detained along with his driver and 29 colleagues by the Taliban’s intelligence service, according to the U.S., though the Taliban denies holding him. All others have been released except Habibi and one other person. The U.S. considers Habibi unjustly detained and is seeking information on his whereabouts, following a recent U.S.-Taliban prisoner exchange that freed two other Americans.

Each winter, around 40,000 humpback whales migrate along Australia’s east coast from Antarctica to Queensland, creating the “humpback highway.” In Sydney, the passing whales often halt ferry traffic as they surface and interact near the harbor, offering commuters close-up encounters. The seasonal spectacle peaks in June and July and highlights the whales’ recovery and prominence in Australian coastal life.

Honduran President Xiomara Castro met U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem in Tegucigalpa for their first talks on immigration and border security, following Castro’s earlier rejection of President Trump’s push for increased deportations. While neither addressed the press afterward, Honduras’s foreign minister said the two sides signed a letter of intent to pursue an agreement for sharing biometric data on migrants transiting Honduras—aligning with similar U.S. arrangements in the region. Noem is the first Trump Cabinet official to visit Honduras.

Dozens of armed Israeli settlers raided two Palestinian villages in the West Bank, igniting homes and vehicles and clashing with residents. In Kafr Malik, three Palestinians were killed and seven injured; it remains unclear whether settlers or Israeli soldiers fired the fatal shots. The Israel Defense Forces said troops responded to rock-throwing and gunfire from “terrorists,” opened fire, and arrested five Israelis who were later released. Palestinian officials and rights groups accuse settlers, often acting with soldiers present, of escalating violence; Israeli data previously showed a 30 percent rise in settler and soldier crimes against Palestinians early in 2025. The incident follows broader West Bank unrest since Oct. 7, 2023, with B’Tselem reporting over 918 Palestinians killed by Israeli forces and at least 24 by settlers or Israelis of unclear affiliation.

Volunteers in Jakarta, known as the Sapu Bersih (Saber) community, patrol busy roads with magnets to collect “nail traps” — sharp metal debris believed to be deliberately scattered to puncture vehicle tires. Started by Siswanto in 2010, the effort has removed about 4 tons of metal by 2016 and continues daily, with roughly 250 grams collected each morning from multiple spots. Police commend the group and say some debris appears intentionally bent, possibly to force bikers to stop and become targets for robbery, though some pieces may fall from vehicles. Residents suspect certain tire repair shops may benefit, but proof is unclear. Volunteers report traps persist and shift locations, highlighting an ongoing safety problem for motorists.

The U.S. Treasury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network designated three Mexican financial institutions—CIBanco, Intercam Banco, and Vector Casa de Bolsa—as primary money laundering concerns, alleging they moved funds for opioid traffickers and processed payments for cartels importing fentanyl precursor chemicals. The action targets financial channels supporting fentanyl production and trafficking.

A fast-moving wildfire south of Athens forced evacuations and closures along the coastal road to Sounion amid Greece’s first heatwave of the summer, with temperatures near 40°C (104°F). Firefighting helicopters battled the blaze near the seaside area of Charakas, and authorities ordered evacuations at five locations. The incident highlights heightened wildfire risk as extreme heat sets in early in the season.

Jamaica will petition King Charles III to ask the UK’s Judicial Committee of the Privy Council for legal advice on slavery reparations. The government wants the council to assess whether the forced transport and enslavement of Africans in Jamaica was lawful, whether it constituted a crime against humanity, and if Britain is obliged to provide remedies for slavery and its enduring impacts. While the monarch can refer such matters, the council may deem it unsuitable, and any opinion could range from advisory to judgment-like. The move keeps reparations in public focus as Jamaica also advances plans to remove the king as head of state. Britain has expressed sorrow over slavery but has rejected reparations demands.

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un unveiled the Wonsan Kalma coastal resort, calling it one of the country’s greatest achievements this year and a cornerstone for building a “tourist culture.” He attended the opening with his wife Ri Sol-ju and daughter Kim Ju-ae, reinforcing speculation that Ju-ae is his heir. The resort, over a decade in development, features sports and leisure facilities and aims to host 20,000 visitors annually after its 1 July opening. However, it will initially be limited to domestic visitors as North Korea slowly eases post-pandemic restrictions; foreign tourism remains largely banned, with limited exceptions for Russian group tours and select events. The appearance of Ri, reportedly carrying a Gucci bag, also drew attention amid UN sanctions on luxury goods.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum criticized new U.S. Treasury sanctions on three Mexican financial institutions—CiBanco, Intercam, and Vector Casa de Bolsa—accused of laundering money for fentanyl-trafficking cartels, saying the U.S. has not provided evidence and urging it to share proof. The U.S. claims the banks enabled cartel transactions, citing specific alleged schemes involving the Gulf, Jalisco New Generation, and Sinaloa cartels. Mexico says it reviewed initial U.S. information, found it insufficient, opened its own probe, and received no follow-up. The move, framed by Washington as part of expanded authorities to combat fentanyl networks, adds to ongoing U.S.-Mexico tensions over drugs and security. The named institutions deny wrongdoing and pledge cooperation.

A black bear repeatedly entering the runway at Yamagata airport forced authorities to halt operations twice and cancel 12 flights. Despite attempts to chase it off with airport vehicles, the bear remained at large on the premises. Hunters set traps and police surrounded the area, with officials describing the situation as a stalemate and keeping the runway closed into the evening. The incident comes amid a rise in human-bear encounters in Japan, linked by scientists to climate-related food changes, altered hibernation patterns, and rural depopulation.

An Argentine judge has ordered the first-ever trial in absentia of 10 Iranian and Lebanese suspects over the 1994 AMIA Jewish community center bombing in Buenos Aires, which killed 85 and injured 300. The move follows a March legal change allowing trials without the defendants’ presence and aims to advance a case stalled for over 30 years. Argentina and Israel have long suspected Hezbollah, allegedly at Iran’s behest, though Iran denies involvement and no arrests have been made. An Argentine court in 2024 labeled the attack a crime against humanity and blamed Hezbollah, while failing to prove Iranian state involvement. The Inter-American Court of Human Rights previously condemned Argentina for failing to prevent, investigate, and for covering up aspects of the case. Former president Cristina Fernández de Kirchner also faces trial over a 2013 memorandum with Iran related to the investigation. President Javier Milei backs the renewed push for justice.

CNN Travel’s 2025 list highlights 10 standout small-to-mid-sized U.S. towns chosen for attractions, food and drink, culture and nightlife, diversity, identity, access, and overall “wow factor,” plus lodging and travel ease. The picks, ranging from about 15,000 to 115,000 residents, span the country and emphasize natural beauty, history, arts, and strong community character. Featured towns include: • Rapid City, South Dakota: “City of Presidents,” gateway to Black Hills, Badlands, Custer State Park, Native art, and regional cuisine. • Clarksdale, Mississippi: Birthplace of the blues with daily live music, numerous festivals, and evolving dining beyond classic Southern fare. • Northampton, Massachusetts: Progressive, bike-friendly hub with a lively downtown, arts scene, and Smith College. • Las Cruces, New Mexico: Sunny, laid-back cultural blend with Organ Mountains hikes and ancient trackways. • Petaluma, California: Riverfront, farm-to-table standout with historic architecture and easy access to coast, wine country, and SF. • Annapolis, Maryland: Chesapeake maritime and colonial heritage, sailing, Naval Academy, and blue crabs. • Bend, Oregon: Outdoor playground for paddling, biking, climbing, plus food trucks, live music, and craft beer. The article underscores how these towns offer outsized experiences—mixing nature, history, creativity, and culinary depth—making them compelling destinations for 2025 travel.

Anna Wintour is stepping down as editor-in-chief of American Vogue after 37 years but will remain Vogue’s global editorial director and Condé Nast’s global chief content officer. The top role at the US edition will be redefined as “head of editorial content,” part of a broader Condé Nast restructuring. Wintour, known for modernizing Vogue with risk-taking covers and editorial choices since 1988, leaves a major opening that could signal new directions for the influential magazine.

India celebrated as Shubhanshu Shukla became the first Indian to travel to the International Space Station, launching on Axiom Space’s Ax-4 mission with SpaceX. Serving as pilot alongside Peggy Whitson, and first-time ISS visitors from Poland and Hungary, Shukla will spend about two weeks conducting around 60 experiments. The mission, a NASA-ISRO collaboration, drew praise from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and widespread public pride. Shukla is only the second Indian in space after Rakesh Sharma (1984) and his flight is seen as a step toward India’s Gaganyaan human spaceflight in 2027. It underscores India’s accelerating space ambitions, including a planned national space station by 2035, a Venus mission in 2028, and recent milestones like Chandrayaan-3’s south pole lunar landing and a successful unmanned docking.

The Trump administration’s Justice Department sued Minnesota to block its in‑state tuition and state scholarship eligibility for undocumented high school graduates, arguing the policies violate federal law and discriminate against U.S. citizens. The suit targets Minnesota’s North Star Promise program and names Gov. Tim Walz, AG Keith Ellison, and the Office of Higher Education. It follows similar DOJ actions in Texas and Kentucky, aligned with Trump executive orders limiting public benefits for undocumented immigrants. Minnesota and other states defend such policies as lawful when applied equally to resident graduates and note added requirements like Selective Service registration and pursuing legal status. The case could signal more challenges to states offering tuition breaks and aid to undocumented students.

Experts recommend washing hair daily in summer, especially for allergy sufferers and those who sweat or swim, to keep the scalp clean and healthy. Use warm (not hot) water and hypoallergenic, moisturizing products to prevent dryness. Treat scalp care like skin care; don’t go more than three days without washing year-round, and consider every day or every other day in hot months. Protect hair and scalp from UV with hats and SPF. For hair thinning, consult a dermatologist; effective treatments include minoxidil (stimulates growth), finasteride (slows loss but may have sexual and mood side effects), and redensyl (can stimulate growth but may irritate).

Joe Rogan told Austin police he viewed influencer Brian “Liver King” Johnson as “significantly unstable” and had heard he struggled with drugs after Johnson posted multiple Instagram rants challenging Rogan to a fight and making threats. Detectives tracked Johnson to Austin, where he continued posting before being arrested at a Four Seasons hotel and charged with a Class B misdemeanor for terroristic threat. Johnson, previously exposed for heavy steroid use, was released on $20,000 bond with conditions including no contact with Rogan, a mental health evaluation, and no firearms. Rogan has not publicly commented.

The Trail Blazers shocked the NBA by acquiring 19-year-old Chinese center Yang Hansen at No. 16 in a trade with the Grizzlies, a move widely viewed as a major reach since he wasn’t projected as a first-rounder. Analysts called it one of the draft’s most surprising picks, with some executives questioning Portland’s decision. Hansen, the first Chinese player drafted since 2016, has played two CBA seasons, averaging 15.8 points, 10.7 rebounds, 3.5 assists, and 2.4 blocks, with noted upside but a need to add strength.

Knox County Sheriff’s Deputy Dalton Swanger was critically injured during a live broadcast of “On Patrol: Live” while searching for shooting suspect Christopher Hensley in a wooded Knoxville area. After deputies announced themselves, Swanger entered the woods with his gun drawn and was struck in the face—reportedly with a brick or rock—then dragged to safety by colleagues. He became unresponsive off-camera and was admitted to the ICU, where he has since shown small signs of improvement and can move all limbs. Hensley, 44, was later arrested and charged with attempted second-degree murder, aggravated assault on a first responder, weapons offenses, and drug-related charges. A GoFundMe for Swanger has raised over $65,000.

Denis Villeneuve has been named director of the next James Bond film amid a franchise overhaul that shifts creative control to Amazon MGM Studios. A lifelong 007 fan, Villeneuve called the role a massive responsibility and vowed to honor the series’ tradition while paving the way for future missions. Producers Amy Pascal and David Heyman will prioritize securing a script and director before casting Daniel Craig’s successor. Amazon MGM’s Mike Hopkins praised Villeneuve’s cinematic vision, calling him one of today’s greatest filmmakers.

Amnesty Kenya reports at least 16 people killed and over 400 injured during nationwide anti-government protests in Kenya, largely due to police actions, including rubber bullets and live fire. The demonstrations, marking a year since deadly tax-bill protests, saw heavy police deployment, water cannons, and tear gas in Nairobi and other cities. Kenyatta National Hospital treated 107 injured, mostly with gunshot wounds. Media coverage was curtailed as some broadcasters were taken off air. At least 61 protesters were arrested. Unrest persists despite President William Ruto withdrawing last year’s tax bill, amid anger over police brutality and the rising cost of living.

Richard Gerald Jordan, 79, the longest-serving death row inmate in Mississippi, was executed by lethal injection after nearly 50 years on death row for the 1976 kidnapping and murder of Edwina Marter in a ransom scheme. A Vietnam War veteran with PTSD, Jordan had challenged the state’s three-drug protocol as inhumane and sought clemency, arguing his war trauma was never considered by a jury; the Supreme Court rejected his appeal. In his final statement, he apologized to the victim’s family and thanked supporters. The victim’s husband and sons did not attend. The execution is Mississippi’s third in a decade and comes amid a rise in U.S. executions to levels not seen since 2015.

Fox News interviewed Maryam Rajavi, leader of the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI) and figurehead of the MEK-affiliated opposition. She asserted that regime change in Iran is “inevitable and within reach,” citing recurring nationwide uprisings and the regime’s loss of legitimacy due to corruption, repression, and economic failure. Rajavi outlined her movement’s platform: a secular republic, gender equality, minority rights, abolition of the death penalty, and a “tolerant, democratic Islam.” She rejected claims the group is unpopular, calling them regime-driven propaganda, and pointed to persistent state hostility toward the MEK, its martyrs, and large international rallies as evidence of its influence. Her message to global leaders, including President Trump, centers on supporting the Iranian people’s quest for freedom and a democratic alternative to clerical rule.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez said he will run for re-election in 2027 despite a series of corruption probes involving his Socialist party (PSOE). While Sánchez himself hasn’t been directly implicated, opposition parties have urged him to resign. The latest scandal centers on former PSOE secretary Santos Cerdán, who resigned after audio appeared to show discussions about improperly awarding public contracts; police have searched party headquarters and Cerdán faces a Supreme Court appearance. Sánchez affirmed he will not call early elections. Separately, his wife is under investigation for potential business irregularities and his brother faces an influence-peddling trial. Sánchez has led Spain since 2018 and is one of Europe’s longest-serving socialist leaders.