Latest Summaries

The children’s commissioner has joined Kyiv in lobbying the UK government to introduce a new GCSE in Ukrainian to help child refugees cope with the “immense upheaval” of fleeing war in their country. Since then Ukraine’s education minister, Oksen Lisovyi, has met the UK education secretary, Bridget Phillipson, to underline his government’s fear that being taught Russian is retraumatising Ukrainian teenagers who have fled Vladimir Putin’s invasion. She intervened after visiting St Mary’s, a network of 13 Ukrainian language schools in the UK, founded at the trust’s headquarters in west London. “As an education charity, we stand ready to do what we can to support Ukrainian students. That’s why we have, last week, asked exam boards to consider introducing a Ukrainian GCSE – giving these young people the chance to celebrate their heritage and their native language.”

The government has announced that net migration in the UK has decreased significantly in 2024, falling almost by half from 860,000 in 2023 to 431,000 in 2024. This decline is attributed to changes in visa regulations and increased emigration, particularly among those who originally entered the UK on study visas following easing of pandemic travel restrictions. In response to this development, Keir Starmer has expressed that this reduction may provide an opportunity for a pragmatic approach in managing immigration policies, emphasizing the gains from immigration while addressing challenges. This aligns with the government's aim to balance immigration impacts effectively.

Public approval for Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba's Cabinet plummets to 20.9%, marking its lowest level since his October 2023 swearing in, according to a Jiji Press poll. The approval rating fell by nearly 2 percentage points from April, while disapproval rose sharply to 52.9%.

Android devices now feature a unique security feature where users must press and hold for a set period to confirm they're not bots. This action adds an additional layer of verification beyond biometrics or passwords, enhancing online safety measures for everyday tasks. The reference ID provided ensures quick identification in case of unauthorized access.

Jeremy Fowler reports on how the Eagles and former center Jason Kelce might have helped sway teams into not banning the tush push. Philadelphia Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie made an impassioned speech in defense of the play. One of Kelce's talking points was to dispel the rumor that he retired because of the tush push, sources told Fowler. Pittsburgh Steelers president Art Rooney II said Kelce's perspective was that the tush push "is a safe play, not something we need to worry about that much." "That's the fun part of having these meetings, and here we are -- the world champion is the main focus of the tush push, and here we are debating it and having to decide, 'Am I really against the tush push or do I just want Philadelphia to [not] have an edge?'

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander capped off a historic season by earning his first NBA MVP award after leading the Oklahoma City Thunder to 68 wins and dominating with an impressive 32.7-point average on 51.9% shooting. The Thunder celebrated his victory during a news conference, where he expressed gratitude to his teammates for their support. With 71 of 100 first-place votes, he secured second place behind Nikola Jokic while outperforming Giannis Antetokounmpo and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar in MVP voting, solidifying his place among basketball history's elite.

The UK court has blocked the government’s deal to transfer control of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, with an injunction granted against completing the agreement. Opposition includes concerns over national security and a legal challenge by Bertrice Pompe, who believes the islands should remain under British jurisdiction. The government faced criticism from UK politicians and campaigners for what they saw as strategic misstep in the deal.

Koizumi plans to switch from the auction method for stockpiled rice to no-bid contracts, with prices determined through negotiation, aiming to lower record-high prices amid public dissatisfaction over his predecessor’s controversial comments about buying rice out of self-interest. Speaking at the Prime Minister's Office, he emphasized his commitment to addressing the crisis and taking charge as "the rice minister."

The article begins with an engaging query from someone who purchased a signed item, driven by curiosity about its authenticity. The writer spots potential fake signatures in tears from laughter captured in a WhatsApp message. They suggest the piece might be genuine due to personal memory and the unique circumstances of signing it. Despite the asking price of £10, which seems low yet high for most buyers, the article reflects on the item's possible value if cleaned. Concerns about authenticity extend to both the owner's life reflections and the desperation of the seller. The piece ends with cautious remarks about potential buyer sanity and the broader implications of such a unique find.

North Korea’s failed attempt to launch a new destroyer, marking its second such failure in a month, has dealt a significant blow to its leader, Kim Jong-un, who called it a criminal act. The incident occurred when the ship lost balance during launch, damaging its hull, though details of casualties or photos from the scene were not revealed. Despite the mishap, Kim, who has emphasized military buildup and nuclear expansion as key achievements, faces growing criticism for his failed project.

Joel Cauchi's fatal stabbing at Westfield Bondi Junction in 2024 sparked questions about the mental health treatment he received before the incident. Joel's psychiatrist discharged him from long-term care due to concerns about relapse, despite him not being prescribed medication for schizophrenia and wishing to be monitored. Experts raised alarms over his potential lack of adherence to medication and worsening mental health symptoms, which may have contributed to his tragic death. The case underscores the risks associated with leaving untreated schizophrenia unmanaged, including possible relapse or severe cognitive decline, which could worsen someone's situation.

Son Heung-min celebrated his greatest achievement yet after triumphing in the Europa League, marking the end of a decade-long wait for a trophy with Tottenham. The South Korean star, who joined the club 10 years ago, expressed his happiness as he secured a crucial victory over Manchester United, despite his side finishing 17th in the Premier League recently. His goalless effort capped off a successful campaign and brought solace to his supporters after a string of near-misses in European competitions.

Australia's recent election marked a pivotal moment in climate policy, with voters signaling a strong desire to move beyond past "climate wars" and embrace responsible energy policies. The country aims to transition its economy to low-carbon energy sources and lead the Pacific region toward sustainable development, including hosting Cop31 as a historic opportunity to shape global climate action. Success will depend on Australia's ambitious 2035 emissions target and fostering collaboration with Pacific partners to drive environmental progress.

The McKinney-Vento program is facing a critical threat as the Trump administration considers eliminating the U.S. Department of Education, risking access to education for millions of homeless students. Districts are bracing for potential loss of funding or failure to meet compliance standards, while educators express concerns about increased failure rates and fewer resources, which could undermine student outcomes and school districts' ability to support vulnerable children effectively.

Son Heung-Min became Tottenham Hotspur's newest legend after lifting their first trophy in 17 years at the Europa League final against Manchester United. The victory, scored by Brennan Johnson, cementsed his status as a player who waited over a decade for this moment. Son, who had no previous trophies with Spurs, celebrated wildly following the win and expressed how special this day was, calling himself "a legend today." His return from a foot injury allowed him to make history as a substitute, marking a historic milestone for both him and the club. This win also boosted Tottenham's hopes in the Premier League season that was on the brink of collapse.

During Google I/O 2025, I was captivated by Google Beam, a 3D video calling technology inspired by Project Starline. While it felt like a significant leap forward, replicating real conversations in 3D proved challenging. The system stitch together 2D feeds into create a lifelike 3D image, and while the experience was engaging, it had notable flaws: jittery animations, restricted camera angles, and gaps in depth perception when looking at someone’s back. My brief interaction with Google Beam left me wondering if it would ever rival real-life conversations but ultimately felt surprisingly natural for such cutting-edge tech.

Russia is persisting in its efforts to annex parts of Ukraine and Crimea, despite failing direct negotiations with Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy after the invasion in 2022. The U.S.-led sanctions against Russia for oil smuggling and arms sales further complicate the peace process. Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin is signaling his readiness to exit any agreement through political maneuvers, while Zelenskyy warns of potential war escalation amid ongoing military operations.

The legal battle between Microsoft and Apple over the App Store continues to delay Microsoft's planned Xbox mobile app store launch. Microsoft has filed a brief supporting Epic Games' fight against Apple, which seeks to overturn an injunction allowing apps like Spotify and Amazon's Kindle to avoid Apple's 30% payment fee by using separate platforms. Despite Apple's request to pause enforcement of the injunction while it appeals, Microsoft remains stuck due to repeated blocks from Apple. While some apps are returning to the App Store in the U.S., Microsoft is holding out for a favorable court decision to move forward with its own mobile store, fearing potential loss if enforcement isn't firm.

As the world marks the 80th anniversary of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, city officials have taken steps to preserve history by cleaning outdated registers at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, honoring these dark events while maintaining humanity in their remembrance. By removing pages from a Nagasaki record book that detail victims' wishes or family preferences, officials continue to pay tribute to those affected without losing sight of the human stories behind the silence.

Judge Brian Murphy has criticized the Trump administration for allegedly violating court orders by deporting migrants to South Sudan within 24 hours, claiming this violates their right to due process. The administration dismisses such claims as an attack on its policies and criticizes Murphy as an "activist." ICE defended the action, stating it was a security measure but did not confirm the destination or provide translators for the clients who spoke little English.

Tyrese Haliburton's mimicked "choke" sign at Madison Square Garden seemed premature but ultimately worked in his favor as the Indiana Pacers secured a thrilling overtime victory over the New York Knicks. The Pacers, trailing by 14 points late in the fourth quarter, pulled off an upset with 8-for-9 from beyond the arc, highlighted by Haliburton's decisive five 3-pointers in the final minutes. Scoring just shy of 32 points himself, he and Aaron Nesmith's contributions kept the Pacers afloat as they advanced to the Eastern Conference finals.

The Indiana Pacers stunned the New York Knicks with a thrilling 138-135 victory in Game 1 of their Eastern Conference finals. Despite trailing by 14 points late in regulation, the Pacers made a comeback fueled by Tyrese Haliburton's pivotal jump shot, which tied the game and led them into overtime. Haliburton initially thought he had won but later revealed it was a 2-pointer. The Pacers' resilience and clutch performance saw them secure their first series victory, with Haliburton and Paul Nesmith each scoring over 30 points.

Can Albanese really see what needs to be done? While the advanced AI demonstrates remarkable capabilities, its ability to interpret and execute complex instructions remains limited by ambiguities in language and context. User interactions often reveal gaps in understanding nuanced or indirect commands, leading to misunderstandings and frustration. Despite these challenges, the AI's effectiveness underscores the need for ongoing improvements in task comprehension across AI systems.

"A new type of bacteria has been discovered on the International Space Station, thriving in the harsh conditions of space by forming a stress-proof shell made from gelatin. Its existence, while initially surprising, offers valuable insights into how microbes adapt to extreme environments and could help protect astronauts during long-duration missions."

Kim Jong Un called the side launch failure of North Korea's advanced destroyer a "criminal act," criticizing those involved for negligence. The incident has led to significant repairs, delaying the completion of critical naval modernization efforts, with experts warning it could slow progress by several months. This incident underscores ongoing challenges in developing and maintaining advanced warships despite Kim's emphasis on their strategic importance.

Tottenham heroically secured a thrilling 1-0 victory in the Europa League final, claiming their first European trophy in over four decades and guaranteeing their place in next season’s Champions League. Brennan Johnson’s decisive goal in the first half proved pivotal as they salvaged a crucial result amidst a dire Premier League campaign, leaving manager Ange Postecoglou with much-needed solace after a year of challenges. The win also paves the way for Tottenham to overcome a 6-year gap since their last Champions League appearance and provides some breathing space heading into next season’s competition.

Mistplay, a Montreal-based company since 2016, has launched its iPhone rewards platform for mobile gamers in the U.S., offering publishers new tools to acquire, monetize, and nurture high-value players with high LTV. The platform features a unique reward system that allows users to earn points through in-game events, tournaments, and trivia, helping publishers achieve better ROI while retaining engaged players. Mistplay CEO Tricia Han emphasized the significance of this expansion into iOS, highlighting its potential to address key challenges for advertisers in a privacy-focused market.

"Signal has updated its Recall feature in its Windows 11 client to prevent screen captures of private chats, using DRM technology also used by platforms like Netflix. This move aims to enhance privacy but may conflict with accessibility tools such as screen readers for visually impaired users. Signal claims it's easy to disable the new setting under Privacy settings, but developer Joshua Lund argues that OS vendors like Microsoft should allow app developers to control access to sensitive data. Meanwhile, Recall's API for opting out of AI archiving is still pending, leaving it vulnerable to misuse despite delayed launches."

Gitesh Gohel is joining The Atlantic as its new chief product officer, bringing a wealth of experience from roles at The Washington Post and Speakeasy/Amplica Labs, where he helped launch platforms like CNN+ and GIPHY. Known for his creativity, passion for serious journalism, and ability to build ambitious products quickly, Gohel has spent his career fostering better understanding through technology. He’ll be reporting to Nick, with plans to spend much of his time at Prince Street while also staying connected in Washington D.C.

Signal has updated its Windows app to address a vulnerability where screenshots could expose sensitive content, introducing "Screen Security" as a default feature on Windows 11. This new setting aims to counteract Microsoft's Recall feature, which captures system activity for historical purposes, though it still may affect functions like screen readers when enabled. Users can disable the feature through Signal Settings > Privacy > Screen security with confirmation required. Signal hopes Microsoft considers privacy implications more carefully in its AI-driven features.

NTT Docomo has decided to phase out its own set of emojis, known as Docomo Emoji, beginning with new smartphones released in late June, marking the end of a 26-year tradition that shaped mobile communication. Other carriers like Samsung will follow suit later, using their own emoji sets or Google’s Noto Color Emoji, while some existing Galaxy devices may receive updated software without Docomo’s emojis by October.

Wscripted has teamed up with global streamer Mubi to unveil its fifth Cannes Screenplay List, aiming to support female and non-binary filmmakers. The initiative features works by prominent directors like Kenyan American Peres Owino and trans filmmaker Jules Byrne, showcasing projects ranging from feature films to horror genres. Spearheaded by Wscripted’s founder Ellie Jamen, this list seeks to amplify the voices of marginalized creators and foster meaningful partnerships in the film industry.

fans rejoiced at the surprise revival of S.W.A.T., which was canceled by CBS in August 2023 after eight seasons. The show returned for a ninth season in January 2024 and has since spun off into a new series, *S.W.A.T. Exiles*, led by Shemar Moore as Hondo. Despite some backlash from fans who felt the spinoff didn't include key original characters like Jay Harrington’s Deacon, Moore emphasized his loyalty to the cast and crew, acknowledging the show's passion-driven success. The series' international popularity and Sony Pictures’ profitability have kept the franchise alive, with plans for further creative development including potential guest appearances from alums.

The article explores how modern football teams employ innovative tactics like the "tush push" play to confuse defenders and force fourth downs, while Josh Allen's quarterbacking tendencies and penalty situations significantly impact game strategies. Teams such as the Chiefs have excelled by adapting their defenses to these plays, showcasing the importance of preparation. Additionally, penalties are strategically used to disrupt opponents, highlighting how a team's ability to exploit these situational plays can tilt the game in their favor.

The article teases fans by finally revealing that Mrs. Flood, the character who has been teasing them with her name throughout Doctor Who, is indeed the latest incarnation of the Rani—theTime Lady scientist played by Kate O’Mara in classic serials. Showrunner Russell T. Davies confirmed this reveal during an interview, explaining his decision to introduce the new Rani alongside her being a fresh character for newer audiences while still fitting into the familiar lore. He emphasized that fans should expect more from this new Rani as they approach the season finale.

In Kabul, the dire struggle for basic needs is magnified as groundwater resources dwindle amid rapid urbanization, decades of conflict, climate change, and poor management. Experts warn that without urgent action, Kabul’s groundwater could vanish by 2030, while stalled projects due to funding shortages and technical delays threaten progress. Vulnerable families, forced to ration water amidst population growth, face heightened costs and instability.

Former prisoners and hostages wrongly held abroad have urged the UK prime minister to urgently secure the release of the pro-democracy campaigner Jimmy Lai before he dies in a Hong Kong jail. The 77-year-old media mogul, who is a British citizen, has been held in solitary confinement for 1,602 days and his family fears he might not survive another summer in Hong Kong, where temperatures can reach 40C (104F). A letter to Keir Starmer signed by 22 people who were detained abroad and their family members, says he must act “before it is too late”. Gallagher said that raising Lai’s case bilaterally was not enough, the UK government had to make the Chinese understand “that actually there is a conditionality or an impact if they don’t engage”. A UK government spokesperson said Lai’s case was a priority, adding: “We continue to call on the Hong Kong authorities to end their politically motivated prosecution and immediately release Jimmy Lai.”

Set in southern Chile with its pristine swimming pool and manicured surroundings, Colonia Dignidad once appeared as a picturesque German-themed community of just over 100 residents. However, it is now infamous for being the former stomping ground of a brutal cult led by Paul Schaefer, where dissidents were tortured and killed under the dictatorship of Augusto Pinochet. Now, after Paul Schaefer was jailed for sexual abuse and torture at the hands of the cult, Chile has proposed transforming Colonia Dignidad into a memorial to remember the victims of its 1973-1990 dictatorship.

Trump falsely claimed South Africa is being inundated with white farmers fleeing for their land, accusing them of being systematically targeted and murdered. During a chaotic Oval Office meeting, he presented a video alleging genocide against whites in South Africa, while Ramaphosa denied the claims, noting crime rates are high but victims are predominantly Black. Trump has supported humanitarian aid programs for white South Africans despite their denial from South Africa, with Australia's small refugee intake from the region and the US targeting Afrikaners as refugees amid criticism of it being akin to global apartheid.

Kneecap, known for their music that often touches on political issues, has issued a statement in response to a UK terror charge against band member Mo Chara following an incident at a London concert where he allegedly displayed a Hezbollah flag. The band denied the charge, emphasizing that it was politically motivated and used anti-terror laws as an excuse. They also highlighted their solidarity with Palestinian rights and their history of speaking out against oppression, even sharing pro-Palestinian messages during a Coachella performance. Chara stressed that while they make music, political differences shouldn't affect personal friendships.

For over a century, Perrier has been a symbol of luxury and sophistication in mineral water, but now the renowned brand is facing a backlash over its claims of being "natural mineral water," which have come under scrutiny due to regulatory violations involving filters and UV treatment. Nestlé Waters, the French parent company, was accused of altering water from wells in Provence to meet marketing standards despite breaking legal guidelines, leading to accusations of a cover-up at the highest levels of government.

Magdalena Martinez’s community is under threat as a proposed dam along the Indio River could disrupt their livelihoods and way of life, with locals warning of potential displacement and loss of local farming dependence. The project, designed to protect the Panama Canal from droughts, has drawn criticism from nearby villages and civil society groups, which warn of broader environmental and long-term impacts if constructed. Meanwhile, President Jose Raul Mulino’s support contrasts with these concerns, highlighting the delicate balance between economic development and community preservation in one of Panama’s most rural areas.

The UK government is considering selling or repurposing a 2021-built border control post in Kent, potentially due to a recent trade pact with the EU that may eliminate the need for routine health and veterinary certifications on farm products. Eurotunnel has already contacted the government about the Sevington site, while the Port of Dover is also in discussions. Meanwhile, other border control posts like Portsmouth’s may face closure as part of the broader deal, though some checks remain unaffected.

Curated from diverse global voices, these books explore culture, identity, and justice through unique perspectives across cultural context, themes, style, and literary impact. Each offers a distinctive lens into human experience, from the personal storytelling of *Cactus Pear for My Beloved* to the critique of media representation in *Black Witness*, and their interplay between narrative and context in works like *The Last City*. Collectively, they paint a rich tapestry of cultural, thematic, and stylistic diversity.

The European Union has stepped in to provide millions of dollars to Radio Free Europe (RFE), a network that faces financial challenges due to the U.S. withholding funds previously allocated to it. Despite securing some support, including $12 million from a federal judge and $6.2 million recently, the U.S. has yet to fully disengage. The EU's assistance aims to preserve RFE's independence and ensure impartial journalism continue. This intervention highlights growing tensions between the U.S. and the network, which operates under Cold War principles but now plays a vital role in shaping Europe's information landscape beyond traditional media dynamics.

Goma dare, a Japanese-style condiment made from sesame seeds, is a game-changer for anyone looking for a flavorful, creamy, sweet, and tangy sauce. This article shares how to reuse leftover tahini in a jar to make this versatile dipping sauce at home—no waste! The recipe also includes optional extras like mayo or miso for added creaminess or complexity. It’s perfect for everything from shabu shabu to cold noodles, making it a crowd-pleasing and sustainable snack or dip.

The Supreme Court has allowed the revocation of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for 348,000 Venezuelans in the U.S., marking a significant step toward their deportation. This decision, justified by the Trump administration as necessary due to gang involvement and safety concerns, follows President Biden's 2021 designation of TPS for Venezuelans amid extreme national conditions. The ruling is part of an emergency application, asserting exclusive authority over such cases, while noting that Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson dissented on racial grounds. This action underscores ongoing challenges faced by Venezuelans in the U.S., highlighting issues of safety and immigration policy.

The Tamagotchi Paradise is an exciting new iteration of the beloved franchise, featuring a zoom dial for detailed critter observation and gene-mixing for unique character breeding. It connects via a docking port to other devices, and players will start with a "Planet Bang" event, creating and enriching a virtual planet while caring for its inhabitants using 25 distinct care menus. Available in three shell designs—Pink Land, Blue Water, Purple Sky—the device is priced at $45, coming soon on July 12 through Japanese Amazon, with exclusive content available in pop-up Tamagotchi Labs and early access for Uni owners via a special ticket.

The Dyson PencilVac is Dyson's latest slimmer vacuum, measuring just 38mm thick and designed to replace the Omni-glide but with a slightly taller profile for effective furniture cleaning when laid flat at 3.7 inches. It features four Fluffycones brushes that prevent hair tangling and LED lights for better visibility, paired with an extendable battery and Dyson’s MyDyson app updates. However, it focuses primarily on hard-floor cleaning, offering only a 30-minute runtime at its lowest power setting.

Martina McBride emphasized the impact of unauthorized AI and deepfakes on artists' reputations during a Capitol Hill hearing, urging Congress to pass the NO FAKES Act to ensure lasting authenticity for celebrities. The bill proposes a federal right of publicity with a 70-year control period posthumously and mandates platforms to swiftly remove deepfakes using digital fingerprint technology, aiming to prevent misuse while shielding social media from liability if they comply. Testifying alongside YouTube CEO Mitch Glazier, McBride stressed the urgency to address this evolving issue before irreversible harm occurs, with bipartisan backing from lawmakers across both parties.