World News
US weekly jobless claims fall; labor market gradually easing
The decline reversed a portion of the jump in the prior week, which had pushed claims to the highest level in more than eight months. The increase was largely attributed to a surge in applications in New York related to school spring breaks.
Xi Jinping and Putin hint at political settlement to Ukraine conflict
"China hopes that peace and stability will return to the European continent at an early date, and stands ready to play a constructive role to this end," Xi said at a joint press conference with Putin after their talks. A joint statement issued after Putin-Xi talks said that both sides believe that for "a sustainable settlement of the Ukrainian crisis, it is necessary to eliminate its root causes."
Cannes Film Festival 2024: Messi the dog sweeps red carpet
At the 77th Cannes Film Festival, the first celebrity to walk the red carpet arrived on four legs. Ahead of the opening ceremony on Tuesday, Messi, the dog from the movie 'Anatomy of a Fall', walked along the Cannes carpet.
The rise of Xi Jinping as Putin's 'Big Brother': A new chapter in Russia-China ties
Putin's recent visit to China underscores the strengthening bond between the two countries amid Russia's actions in Ukraine. This visit, Putin's first abroad since his re-election, emphasizes the strategic partnership between Russia and China. The visit highlights their military collaboration and economic interdependence, with China's support bolstering Russia's economy and military capabilities. The alliance between Russia and China serves as a counterbalance to Western dominance and has raised concerns in the West about China's role in supporting Russia's military operations.
Nepal bans 'Everest, MDH Masala' brand, starts test for ethylene oxide
Nepal's Department of Food Technology and Quality Control has prohibited the import, sale, and consumption of two Indian spice brands, Everest and MDH, due to concerns about high levels of ethylene oxide. Tests are ongoing to determine the presence of harmful chemicals in these spices, and the ban will persist until the final report is issued. This action follows similar bans by Hong Kong and Singapore. The Indian government has clarified that the use of ethylene oxide is permitted within certain limits in various countries.
Donald Trump's lawyers cite Michael Cohen's insults to undercut his credibility
At Donald Trump's trial, his lawyers tried to discredit his former fixer, Michael Cohen, highlighting Cohen's history of lying. Trump's lawyer played jurors audio clips of Cohen celebrating Trump's legal troubles. Cohen admitted to lying to Congress and seeking a pardon from Trump. Trump, facing multiple charges, denies wrongdoing. Cohen's testimony, including discussions with Trump about hush money, has been corroborated by evidence. Trump's team is unsure if he will testify. The trial, likely the only one before the election, is seen by some as a political move against Trump.
Biden's office is running the New York hush money trial, alleges Donald Trump
With prosecutors' hush-money case against Donald Trump barreling toward its end, their star witness is back in the hot seat Thursday as defence lawyers try to chip away at Michael Cohen's crucial testimony implicating the former president. Former President Trump said his polls are "through the roof," despite President Joe Biden and the Department of Justice trying to stop his campaign with the New York 'hush money' trial.
A year after May 9 protests in Pakistan: A turning point in civil-military relations?
Even though the military remains the final arbiter in Pakistan to determine the course of politics, the May 9 protests have made it more difficult and challenging than ever for it to manage the guided democracy. The anguish and sentiment of people against the instrumental role of the military have raised questions about its legitimacy.
Harris accepts debate invite from CBS News to face off with Trump's VP pick this summer
Harris' team told the network she would debate in-studio on Tuesday, July 23, or Tuesday, August 13, and encouraged the Trump campaign to agree to one of the dates for his eventual vice presidential pick. The Trump campaign didn't immediately comment.
US industrial production weaker than expected in April
US factory output remained unchanged in April, disappointing analysts who had anticipated a third consecutive monthly increase, as per Federal Reserve data released on Thursday. Industrial production showed no growth last month, down from a revised 0.1 percent rise in March. This data contradicts expectations of a gradual manufacturing sector recovery. Manufacturing output declined by 0.3 percent compared to the previous month, with notable drops in motor vehicles, parts, and electrical equipment. Mining output fell by 0.6 percent, while utilities saw a 2.8 percent rise.
Joe Biden rejects Republican request for audio of special counsel interview
US President Joe Biden on Thursday rejected a demand by House Republicans to turn over the audio recording of his interview with the special counsel who investigated his handling of classified documents. Special Counsel Robert Hur interviewed the president extensively for his investigation into Biden's retention of classified records.
Must Watch
"Lone wolf" has been charged with shooting Slovak prime minister: Interior minister
Slovakia's Interior Minister announced that a "lone wolf" has been charged in the shooting of Prime Minister Robert Fico. Th incident caused widespread shock and soul-searching in the deeply divided society. Fico, in serious but stable condition, was targeted with political motivations according to initial investigations. The attempt to murder has sparked calls for unity and calm amid heightened political tensions and upcoming European parliament elections.
What we know so far about Slovak PM Robert Fico's attacker
Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico is in a 'very serious' but stable condition in an intensive care unit after being shot five times in an assassination attempt, as reported by a hospital official.
France imposes emergency in Pacific territory of New Caledonia as violent unrest turns deadly
France imposes 12-day emergency in New Caledonia to tackle deadly unrest among indigenous people seeking independence. Security forces deployed to quell violence following protests over voting reforms, with armed clashes, looting, arson. Police reinforcements rushed to the island. Residents affected by the unrest as French constitution amendments spark tensions. Curfew extended, schools and main airport closed in New Caledonia.
Xi says China hopes Europe will return to peace soon and that China will play a constructive role
Chinese President Xi Jinping welcomed Russian President Vladimir Putin in Beijing amid Russia's offensive in Ukraine. The leaders discussed strengthening their nations' partnership and signed agreements. Putin praised China's infrastructure initiative while pledging collaboration in global affairs. The visit highlights their close ties amidst geopolitical tensions and military cooperation.
Taylor Swift's Eras Tour set to add over a billion dollar to UK's economy
Taylor Swift's Eras Tour is estimated to boost the UK economy by nearly £1 billion, with fans spending on tickets, travel, and merchandise, according to Barclays bank. The tour has achieved significant milestones and is projected to double its ticket sales by the end of the year.
