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Concise news summaries
"The Real Housewives of London" marks its debut with an all-star cast, including Juliet Angus, Amanda Cronin, Karen Loderick-Peace, Juliet Mayhew, Panthea Parker, and Nessie Welschinger. The series, produced by Universal Television Alternative Studio UK Productions, is set to launch on Hayu later this year. This marks Hayu's first original commission since its rise in popularity for reality content.
Microsoft is eliminating its developer onboarding fees for the Microsoft Store on Windows starting in June 2025, aiming to simplify the process for creators while responding to legal pressure from Apple over similar measures. While the company retains a 12% charge for games and a 15% cut for non-gaming apps within its commerce platform, this move reflects its broader strategy to compete more effectively with Apple's App Store and Google's Play store on Android.
A novel security feature requires users to "Press & Hold" an object to confirm they're human, not a bot, while referencing ID fcb050da-3115-11f0-a23e-30696009ef6c. This method ensures only genuine individuals can access accounts or systems, enhancing safety and preventing automated bypass attempts.
"President Kais Saied's decisive self-coup in Tunisia has sent shockwaves across the region as a fragile democracy faces escalating repression against civil society, opposition figures, and even foreign intellectuals like French author Bernard-Henri Lévy. Western partners have remained silent amid growing fear of his authoritarianism, while Tunisians struggle to defend what remains of their democratic framework amidst intense personal risk."
Geoff Ralston, known for his time at Y Combinator, has launched the Safe Artificial Intelligence Fund (SAIF) focused on AI safety, security, and responsible deployment. The fund plans to invest $100,000 in startups, capped at $10 million total. SAIF will support companies developing tools for safe AI practices, such as enhancing decision-making transparency and ensuring compliance with regulations. Ralston aims to avoid funding fully autonomous weapons and instead prefers backing systems that prevent or detect AI-related attacks. He hopes his YC connections will give him an edge in this crowded field.
The UK’s serious and organised crime agency has frozen almost £90m of luxury London property belonging to two men linked to the deposed ruler of Bangladesh. In a development that comes after mounting pressure on the UK to assist Bangladesh in tracing assets linked to the former regime, the National Crime Agency (NCA) obtained nine freezing orders, official records show. The orders prevent Ahmed Shayan Rahman and his cousin, Ahmed Shahryar Rahman, from selling property, including apartments in London’s Grosvenor Square. The pair were named in a Guardian investigation into UK assets owned by allies of Bangladesh’s former autocratic ruler, Sheikh Hasina. The properties frozen by the NCA include one in Gresham Gardens, north London.
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Sudanese soldiers celebrated onlookers as Khartoum state officially declared free of Rapid Start Initiative (RSF) control. The announcement, marking the end of the previous government’s stabilization program, comes with a sense of hope for a new phase in Sudan’s political landscape. Soldiers raised their flags and cheered near the capital, signaling a potential shift toward a new government led by Omar al-Bashir, who may now consolidate power in the north after years of struggle. The move could pave the way for a fresh era of governance as international observers prepare to support the new dispensation.
The Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed a technical delegation will attend the upcoming Iran-US nuclear talks in Oman on Sunday, as consultations to prepare for the fourth round of indirect talks with the U.S. continue. These discussions aim to address key issues including Iran’s nuclear program, uranium enrichment, and sanctions relief, with former President Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, emphasizing verification conditions for any civilian nuclear use. The talks, initially scheduled for May 3 in Rome, were postponed due to logistical reasons in Oman.
An 11-year-old girl unexpectedly met someone on Snapchat during a competition, leading to an encounter with Jai Clapp, who was later identified as a predator when she was 17 and sentenced to eight years and 10 months for his abuse. Snapchat has since implemented safeguards like language filters and age checks to prevent similar exploitation, but experts remain cautious about potential misuse of its features. --- This summary effectively captures the key points with an engaging opening and concise main ideas.
The UK government’s immigration bill faced widespread criticism for its emotive language, which critics argued painted immigrants as a threat to national unity. Prime Minister Keir Starmer and his predecessor, Nigel Farage, both faced calls to clarify their positions after using hyperbolic rhetoric and shifting stances. Yvette Cooper, Home Secretary, struggled to spun the government’s narrative due to inconsistencies in Starmer’s comments over time, with critics accusing him of misleading the public. The conflict highlighted deep divisions within the UK—some leaders pushing for stricter controls while others prioritized transparency and fairness in handling immigration bonuses.
The stigma surrounding GLP-1 medications for weight loss reflects societal norms that equate being overweight with acts of weakness or failure, often idealizing it as a problem rooted in personal inadequacy rather than lifestyle or health choices. These medications are prescribed effectively but hidden due to judgment and lack of public visibility, with individuals opting not to admit their use out of fear of scrutiny, similar to how smoking cessation is shamed. Cultural narratives that view weight management as a sign of inability further deepen this stigma, contributing to the pressure individuals face in seeking medical solutions without revealing their choices to loved ones.
Donald Trump has launched an aggressive campaign to undermine public media, accusing journalists of being enemies and pursuing actions like blocking funding for organizations such as NPR. Despite his virulent rhetoric, this effort reflects broader trends in U.S. politics where media accessibility is increasingly threatened by powerful entities. Congress is advised to uphold public funding for these institutions, recognizing their vital role in democratic governance and fact-based journalism, despite Trump's authoritarian tendencies.
The US and China have agreed to reduce tariffs, taking a significant step toward de-escalating their trade dispute, which has been marked by record-high taxes. The US is lowering its tariffs on Chinese goods from 145% to 30%, while China will cut its duties on US products from 125% to 10%. Some tariffs are being removed or paused temporarily as the two nations seek to ease tensions after weeks of high tension, with many now concerned about the impact on global supply chains and trade relations. This could mark a potential end to months of escalating conflict sparked by President Trump's administration.
Looking for the perfect pizza oven? Here’s what you need to know—whether you prefer wood-fired ovens like the Ooni Koda 2 Pro, electric models with app-based controls, or a simpler setup using baking stones. Each option has its pros and cons, so choose based on your cooking style, budget, and desired temperature control. And don’t forget to ventilation for safety!
The article captures the fascination of seeing the inner workings of tech products through transparent cases, which reveal components like chips and wires that are usually hidden. For those who find this intriguing, Shargeek's Power Bank is a highlight—a compact, affordable device available at $99 with Prime members saving a dollar, offering an engaging glimpse into the technology inside these gadgets.
In 2016, Poland's right-wing populist government initiated a campaign against media and civil society, targeting the thinktank Kultura Liberalna. The initiative to respond included public statements and legal demands, which ultimately halted the campaign quickly. However, political harassment persisted under different leaders. In the U.S., similar tactics by right-wing populists are gaining traction, as seen in recent protests against President Trump's influence. Advice for navigating these challenges includes embracing intergenerational solidarity, respecting constitutional law, and planning long-term strategies to maintain democracy effectively.
Removing rhinos' horns has become a game-changer in combating wildlife trafficking. A study in *Science* revealed that dehorning led to an unprecedented 78% decline in poaching across eight African reserves, while law enforcement efforts failed to significantly reduce rhino deaths despite arresting hundreds of suspects. Experts like Timothy Kuiper suggest that current strategies might not be sustainable or impactful enough to address the root causes of wildlife crime.
Sydney Sweeney and ex-fiancé Jonathan Davino are not rekindling their relationship, despite being photographed together twice this month on different coasts after their separation in January. The split came after canceling their wedding plans earlier that year following years of engagement. Sources indicate their sightings aren't signs of reconciliation but rather a gender reveal party at her Florida estate hosted by Sydney's friend, with Jonathan invited due to his friendship connection.
The United States and Israel have hinted at a potential plan for temporary leadership of Gaza following a post-war period, with a U.S.-led administration expected to oversee stabilization efforts until local conditions are safe and a viable Palestinian government can emerge. The discussions emphasize that such an arrangement’s duration remains flexible, contingent on the ground situation, making it still preliminary in nature.
ZDNET highlights the NexTool E1 as a standout pocket multitool under $30, offering sharpness and durability without premium warranties or bulky pliers. Made from 30Cr13 stainless steel, it features a screwdriver with an expandable bit set and excellent scissors for quick tasks. Despite TSA restrictions due to included blades, the tool provides solid value at its price point, making it a reliable essential.
Matt Lauria has joined "Sheriff Country," CBS' spinoff of "Fire Country," where he'll star as a sheriff alongsideMorena Baccarin, previously leading the series. The show follows Baccarin's character, a stepsister of Cal Fire's division chief, who investigates criminal activity in Edgewater while dealing with her ex-con father and a mysterious incident involving her wayward daughter.
When I was 16, I chose the unconventional path of auditioning for a high school musical with a song that didn't quite fit my voice but spoke to my desire to be an artist beyond just a singer. Despite facing insecurities about my acting skills and singing out of tune, I found myself in a lead role at CresFest thanks to an inclusive community. That experience taught me the power of singing with others, even when it felt like I didn't belong. --- This summary opens by highlighting the personal struggle and unexpected journey, then succinctly touches on the key points from the article, maintaining an engaging tone throughout.
After Kashmir attack, India downgrades ties with Pakistan and suspends water treatytoggle caption Dar Yasin/APMUMBAI, India — The day after a deadly attack on tourists killed 26 people in the mountain town of Pahalgam in Indian-administered Kashmir, India announced it was closing a border with Pakistan, downgrading its diplomatic ties and suspending a crucial water treaty. The Indus Waters Treaty lays out how India and Pakistan use water from six rivers that flow through both countries. India has long accused its western neighbor of stoking and sponsoring armed militancy in India-administered Kashmir, accusations that Pakistan denies. The Muslim-majority Kashmir region has been disputed between India and Pakistan since they became independent nations in 1947. Pakistan has provided a lot of support, including training to armed militants who operate inside Kashmir.
Circa Survive, formed in 2004 from metalcore This Day Forward, has announced its indefinite hiatus after three years of inactivity. Frontman Anthony Green acknowledged that like many bands, they've weathered change but remain committed to their legacy through music. Now, Green is focusing on solo work and new projects, including L.S. Dunes, a passion-driven endeavor alongside The Sound of Animals Fighting. Violet, their next album, reflects his desire for creative freedom and reinvention.
A Herniated Disc Changed My Life: I Thought It Was Just Muscle Pain Until an MRI Revealed Otherwise. After weeks of agony and a forced hiatus from work, I discovered the culprit—a herniated disc pressing on my sciatic nerve. Recovery began with physiotherapy, but returning to a desk job nearly derailed progress until I requested a standing desk, becoming the office’s human exclamation mark. Now, years later, standing (with occasional breaks) keeps me pain-free and productive, while inspiring colleagues to adopt similar solutions. Exercise has proven its healing power, and I’m considering taking the next step with a treadmill desk.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered a career-defining performance with 34 points, eight assists, and seven rebounds as Oklahoma City secured a thrilling 124-94 victory in Game 5 of the Western Conference finals, advancing to the NBA Finals. Despite the series-clinching win, Gilgeous-Alexander emphasized the team's need for continued improvement as they face elimination from deeper playoff rounds if they can't turn their focus to full-game preparation.
Jeanine Pirro, despite being recruited from Fox News, was appointed as Trump's interim U.S. attorney in Washington D.C., sparking debate about the fairness of partisan hiring. Known for her conservative views and legal expertise, including a distinguished career as a district attorney in New York, Pirro brings credibility to Trump's administration despite her Fox News ties. While some criticize her background, others highlight her experience and media presence, contrasting her with previous picks like Ed Martin, whose lack of legal standing led to his dismissal. This appointment could signal a pattern of politicized law enforcement decisions.
Cuteness aside, researchers have uncovered a fascinating new behavior in cuttlefish—waving with their tentacles—to signal dominance or courtship, suggesting a deeper level of intelligence. This wave-making ability could help scientists better understand their complex social behaviors and decision-making processes using machine learning techniques. Previously thought to be exclusive to mammals and birds, this discovery adds new insights into the cognitive abilities of these intelligent cephalopods.
China's growing influence in the Pacific is causing alarm among New Zealand officials, who warn that the region could shift toward a military zone. Winston Peters, New Zealand's top diplomat, has emphasized the need to preserve peace and security in the area, amid tensions over China's live-drilling exercises in the Tasman Sea and diplomatic disputes with the Cook Islands due to unclear agreements. Peters stressed the importance of addressing these issues while navigating global uncertainties from Trump's tariffs and changes at USAID. He highlighted that maintaining open dialogue is crucial for strengthening ties with Pacific nations amid concerns about China's influence expansion.
The papal conclave has begun as Archbishop Diego Ravelli declared "extra omnes," signaling non-voters to exit the Sistine Chapel. Only 133 cardinal electors remain to vote for the next pope after the doors of the chapel are closed, marking a significant step in the election process that now hinges on the votes of this small group of cardinals.
The US has been conducting bombing campaigns in Yemen to target Houthi rebels, driven by their vow to retaliate against Israel's actions in Gaza. Recent reports suggest that the Pentagon may be using unreliable sources like social media accounts for targeting data, with one such account leading to an airstrike that killed civilians. While there's no direct evidence of reliance on these accounts, the use poses a risk given their potential inaccuracies and broader implications for military operations relying on open-source intelligence (OSINT).
June has been a challenging month for Russia's military, as drone attacks have targeted key airfields across Siberia and the northern region of Murmansk, estimated to have destroyed 41 large strategic bombers.Analysts suggest this number could be higher than reported based on satellite images. Additionally, the country is poised to reach its millionth casualties since the full-scale invasion in February 2022, with around 1,000 to 1,200 soldiers killed or injured each day before June ends.
A federal judge ruled that Apple violated its own court order by keeping the App Store closed and charging commissions outside their platform, referring the case to prosecutors. Epic Games, which claimed antitrust violations, argued Apple didn't comply with a 2021 ruling after finding it engaged in anticompetitive practices. The U.S. attorney’s office declined to comment on whether this case could lead to criminal contempt charges.
The rainy season in southern Kyushu began earlier than any other part of Japan for the first time since 1951, marking a significant milestone. This early start is 14 days before the usual timing and 23 days ahead of last year's record. The change appears linked to unusual weather patterns, including a strong Pacific high-pressure system pushing rain toward the north and westerlies drifting further north than average this year.
Kevin De Bruyne celebrated with manager Pep Guardiola after scoring a pivotal goal for Manchester City, securing their third-place finish in the Premier League and reinforcing their status as favorites for Champions League qualification. Despite rumors of potential free-agent moves, including an MLS opportunity, he remained open to new challenges. The 33-year-old expressed gratitude for his time at City but hinted at staying open-minded about his future while acknowledging his manager's recognition of his impact on the club's success.
Uber announced a strategic partnership with Chinese self-driving firm Momenta, adding to its global expansion into autonomous vehicles. The deal, alongside other collaborations like Waymo and Volkswagen, aims to bolster Uber's efforts in autonomous driving globally. WithMomenta’s robotaxis expected to launch early 2026 in Europe, Uber seeks to complement its existing fleet. Meanwhile, Tesla's potential entry with fully self-driving vehicles could intensify competition as both companies aim to dominate ride-hailing services.
Julie Chrisley and her husband Todd, known for their controversial reality TV appearances, were unexpectedly freed from federal prison after President Trump’s pardon following their 2022 convictions for bank fraud and tax evasion. Their daughter, Savannah, held a press conference shortly before their release, and the family is reportedly gearing up for what’s expected to be a significant reunion as they adapt to life post-release. The exoneration has sparked media attention, with a Lifetime special set to air their historic moment.
The incident where Cardinal Peter Erdo, Hungary’s archbishop, both opposed and later aligned with Pope Francis’ compassion toward refugees highlights his dual role in balancing papal gestures with conservative principles. Initially opposing Francis for shutting church doors as a human smuggler, Erdo later reversed his stance after meeting the Pope, aligning with conservatives wary of Francis’ emotional focus at the expense of rules. This shift underscores internal divisions within the Catholic Church, resonating differently among liberals and conservatives regarding papal empathy versus conservative messaging against populist leaders like Viktor Orban.
The Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel surprisingly dropped charges against seven student protesters from a pro-Palestinian protest in 2024 after legal delays and describing the case as "circus-like." Despite initial claims of committing crimes, the students were charged with trespassing and resisting police but were deemed peaceful protesters. Nessel's decision stemmed from her belief that pursuing these cases was not efficient use of resources. The case became a symbol of broader tensions between the government and protesters, highlighting concerns over free speech and possible bias within her agency.
The HBO teaser trailer for Mountainhead teases a clash among influential billionaires at an alpine retreat amid global unrest, featuring Steve Carell, Cory Michael Smith, Ramy Youssef, and Jason Schwartzman. Directed by Jesse Armstrong from his own script, the film releases on May 31 alongside streaming service Max, following his rapid turnaround after wrapping Succession in Park City, Utah, earlier this year. Armstrong previously contributed as a writer to other projects and upcoming endeavors include his Harry Potter series with notable roles led by Francesca Gardiner and Mark Mylod.
Sport, while often celebrated for its exhilaration, also serves as a poignant reminder of human fragility and loss. Hugh McIlvanney noted how even in death, the struggles of boxers and jockeys were dwarfed by existential concerns, while Robert Walls highlighted how sport’s significance can be overshadowed when we lose those we love. Meanwhile, Adam Selwood’s untimely death underscored how deeply personal sport’s grandeur is, showing its ability to evoke both awe and grief. Both stories remind us that sport transcends mere entertainment—it touches our most human sides of joy, pain, and introspection.
Israel is taking measures to address humanitarian concerns in Gaza by relaxing its blockade and allowing limited food supplies amid growing reports of violence and the risk of famine. The decision follows extensive ground operations by Israeli forces in both northern and southern parts of the enclave, with health officials reporting hundreds killed in recent attacks, including 130 overnight.
Valentina Shevchenko returns to the UFC Octagon at UFC 315, taking on Manon Fiorot in what marks the end of her second reign as women's flyweight champion. The bout serves as both a send-off for her historic trilogy with Alexa Grasso and an opportunity to showcase her evolution beyond her physical prowess into more strategic and nuanced combat techniques. Meanwhile, UFC legend Demetrious "Mighty Mouse" Johnson humorously pokes fun at Shevchenko's victory dance, which is deeply rooted in her Central Asian cultural heritage rather than his gaming influence, adding a unique twist to the post-fight celebration.
A Pacers fan who faced backlash from Knicks supporters after a game got an unexpected kindness boost from Tyrese Haliburton, who promised to take him and another person to an upcoming playoff game. Haliburton appeared on "The Pat McAfee Show" to personally thank Hans Perez for his support following the fan's victimization, acknowledging the fans' behavior during the game and offering assistance despite initial hesitation from the fan. Haliburton emphasized support for the fan's dedication and expressed a desire to ensure their well-being in the series.
Spain and Portugal experienced one of Europe's worst blackouts, affecting 55 million people over nearly a day. Despite their high reliance on renewables—solar and wind energy—initial reports linked the blackout to an "unusual atmospheric phenomenon." However, experts argue that renewables likely weren’t the cause, as grid systems with low inertia are more susceptible to sudden disruptions. The outage stemmed from engineering issues, including potential solar power loss or transmission problems, highlighting the need for better grid infrastructure to handle increased renewable energy.
JERUSALEM — After nearly two years in captivity, Edan Alexander, an American soldier released by Hamas following direct talks with U.S. officials, expressed tearful embraces to his family as he returned to Israel. His safe release marked a rare instance of goodwill from the Palestinian group, seen as a potential step toward peace. As his family celebrated, they pressed for further progress in ending the Gaza conflict and securing the release of remaining hostages, while President Trump hinted at diplomatic moves that could aid in such efforts. The incident underscores the delicate balance between U.S.-Israel relations and the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza.