-
Former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson breached government rules by being evasive about his relationship with a hedge fund that arranged a meeting with Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. The Advisory Committee on Business Appointments (Acoba) found Johnson in breach of Westminster lobbying rules for failing to clarify his ties with the hedge fund Merlyn Advisors.
-
Peter Murrell, the former chief executive of the Scottish National Party and husband of Nicola Sturgeon, has been charged with embezzlement of SNP funds. Murrell resigned as an SNP member following his arrest and subsequent charges. The case has been described as 'very serious' and 'concerning' by political figures, including the current First Minister of Scotland, Humza Yousaf.
-
Peter Murrell, the husband of former Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, has been charged with embezzlement from the Scottish National Party. The charges follow a lengthy investigation into the party's finances, raising questions about the use of donations for campaigning for Scottish independence.
-
The Metropolitan Police in London has issued apologies for an officer's discriminatory remarks towards a Jewish campaigner near an anti-Israel march. The officer's comments were deemed offensive and led to a series of apologies and retractions by the police force.
-
Conservative MP Mark Menzies is facing suspension over allegations of misusing campaign funds for personal expenses, including a 3am call to an elderly party volunteer for financial assistance. Menzies disputes the claims, asserting compliance with declaration rules.
-
Peter Murrell, the husband of former First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, has been arrested and charged with embezzlement of funds from the Scottish National Party after a long-running investigation by Police Scotland.
-
Tory MP Mark Menzies is accused of misusing campaign funds by allegedly demanding thousands of pounds to free himself from an alleged kidnap attempt. The MP was suspended as a trade envoy after the claims surfaced. Katie Fieldhouse, a former Tory mayor, reported the incident and expressed disappointment in the handling of her complaint.
-
Meta has unveiled Llama 3, its latest large language model, to enhance its AI capabilities and compete with ChatGPT. The model will be integrated into Meta AI, the company's AI assistant, offering users improved reasoning and performance.
-
Coventry Building Society is in talks to acquire The Co-operative Bank in a deal worth up to
£780 million, potentially creating the UK's seventh-largest lender with assets of around
£89 billion. The acquisition would reintroduce the bank to mutual ownership, a structure it last had over a decade ago. The deal is subject to contract agreement and regulatory approval, with plans for a gradual integration of the bank into the building society.
-
Andrew Malkinson, who spent 17 years in jail for a rape he did not commit, has received an unreserved apology from the Criminal Cases Review Commission (CCRC). The CCRC admitted failing Mr. Malkinson, who was finally released in July last year after his conviction was quashed by the Court of Appeal. Despite the apology, Mr. Malkinson called it 'too little, too late' and questioned the sincerity of the chairwoman's regret.
-
UK Parliament has advanced a bill to create a smoke-free generation by banning tobacco sales to individuals born after January 1, 2009. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's plan aims to reduce smoking-related diseases and deaths, with the bill receiving support from public health officials and the opposition Labour Party.
-
Nicola Sturgeon's legacy is under intense scrutiny following failures in SNP policies and leadership. Her successor, Humza Yousaf, is struggling to revive the party's fortunes, while Scottish Government ministers remain silent on a critical report regarding gender care for children and young people.
-
Lewis Hamilton faces a major setback in the Chinese Grand Prix qualifying, finishing 18th after leading the sprint race earlier. Hamilton's error in qualifying led to his worst grid position in nearly seven years.
-
The Scottish government has decided to scrap its 2030 emissions target and replace annual targets with a five-year system. This move comes after missing several emissions targets and a report deeming the 2030 goal unachievable. The government remains committed to reaching net zero by 2045.
-
Prince Harry has lost his bid to appeal a High Court ruling regarding his personal security arrangements in the UK. The ruling stems from a decision made by the Home Office in 2020 to change the level of taxpayer-funded protection provided to him when visiting the country. Despite this setback, Prince Harry remains resolute in his legal battle, seeking justice through the Court of Appeal.
-
Conservative MP Mark Menzies has been suspended over allegations of misusing campaign funds, with Labour leader Keir Starmer calling for police involvement. Menzies disputes the claims and has been suspended as a government trade envoy. The Conservative Party is investigating the allegations seriously.
-
Prince Harry has won a court battle against The Sun publisher, with a judge rejecting a request to delay the trial. Additionally, the Duke of Sussex's appeal to increase publicly funded security has been turned down.
-
Bayer Leverkusen continues their unbeaten run by defeating West Ham United to secure a spot in the Europa League semi-finals. This victory comes on the heels of their historic Bundesliga win, where they clinched the title for the first time in their history, ending Bayern Munich's 11-year reign.
-
The European Commission has proposed negotiations with the UK for a post-Brexit deal to allow young people to move freely, work, and study in both regions. Additionally, the European Parliament has approved a landmark overhaul of the EU's asylum and migration rules after eight years of negotiations.
-
China's AI industry witnesses the rise of new unicorns like Baichuan, collaboration between Lenovo and Alibaba on AI devices, and the release of global standards for GenAI and LLM technologies.
-
Former Prime Minister Liz Truss's new book 'Ten Years to Save the West' criticizes economic institutions, while her potential return to politics stirs controversy.
-
Labour's Angela Rayner is under police investigation for potential offences related to the sale of her former council house and her living arrangements prior to becoming an MP. The investigation, initiated by Conservative MP James Daly, has expanded to include multiple allegations beyond electoral law, such as tax matters. Rayner denies any wrongdoing and has vowed to resign if found guilty, attributing the situation to a smear campaign by the Conservative Party ahead of local elections.
-
Prince Harry has formally confirmed his US residency, marking a clear separation from his royal duties in Britain. The prince, along with his wife Meghan, has been residing in California since 2020, and the recent paperwork filing solidifies their commitment to living in the United States.
-
The UK, Spain, and the EU have reached an agreement on general political lines for Gibraltar's future status, including issues related to the airport, goods, and mobility. Negotiations are ongoing to finalize the UK-EU agreement within weeks.
-
UK retail sales remained unchanged in March, with no growth reported from February. Rising prices have impacted consumer spending, with department stores particularly affected.
-
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has sparked controversy with his proposed changes to the welfare system, aiming to tackle the 'sick note culture' and increase support for those with mental health conditions.
-
Taylor Swift fans in the UK have fallen victim to scams amounting to $1.2 million while attempting to buy tickets for her Eras Tour. Lloyds Bank issued an urgent warning after over 600 customers reported being scammed, with losses ranging from $332 to over $1,000 per victim.
-
BBC presenter Martine Croxall is suing the broadcaster for age and sex discrimination after being off-air for over a year following the merger of BBC News and World News channels. Croxall, along with other female presenters, missed out on chief presenter roles after a reapplication process. The legal action is set to begin on May 1, 2024.
-
Hannah Waddingham confronted a photographer at the Olivier Awards for asking her to 'show leg', while Sunset Boulevard, featuring Nicole Scherzinger, won seven awards at the ceremony.
-
Aberdeenshire-based pipeline technology specialist Stats Group announces CEO Leigh Howarth stepping down to take on a non-executive director role, with Stephen Rawlinson set to succeed him after a global recruitment process. Howarth expresses pride in the company's evolution under his leadership and excitement for future growth alongside Mitsui, following the successful sale of the business in 2023.
-
South Korea's government adjusts plans to increase medical school admissions in response to a weeks-long strike by doctors. The strike has left hospitals strained and a patient died after being refused treatment at multiple facilities. The government's compromise aims to address the doctors' concerns while ensuring the country has enough medical professionals to meet the needs of its aging population.
-
A High Court judge has ruled in favor of Michaela Community School in Brent, London, upholding the ban on prayer rituals, despite a legal challenge from a Muslim pupil claiming discrimination and breach of religious freedom.
-
Calls for reform of the UK Foreign Office have emerged, with proposals to replace it with a new Department for International Affairs to modernize the country's foreign policy and adapt to its reduced status.
-
Bitcoin's rare halving event has taken place, reducing rewards for miners by 50%. JPMorgan predicts a potential price drop post-halving due to overbought market conditions. Crypto enthusiasts anticipate Bitcoin's halving, expecting a potential price surge. Bitcoin's creator, Satoshi Nakamoto, influences the cryptocurrency with the upcoming halving. Mizuho Securities warns of a potential Bitcoin price drop to $30,000 due to fading investor interest.
-
This weekend offers a diverse selection of entertainment options for streaming, including horror movies, true crime documentaries, and lighter fare, providing something for everyone to enjoy.
-
Team GB and ParalympicsGB have unveiled their kits for the 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Paris, featuring the classic British red, white, and blue colors. The kits, designed by Adidas, aim to celebrate the unique aspects of Great Britain and embrace tradition, in contrast to recent controversies over kit designs. Athletes like Tom Daley and Olivia Breen expressed excitement and pride in representing their country in the new kits.
-
Luxury fashion brands are incorporating sports-inspired elements into their collections, with Acne Studios launching a high-priced football shirt, Zendaya promoting tenniscore fashion, Victoria Beckham celebrating her 50th birthday, and Sabato De Sarno introducing luxury hoodies at Gucci.
-
Reality TV stars Molly-Mae Hague and Tommy Fury were involved in a car crash near their Cheshire home, leaving Molly-Mae 'flustered' and 'in shock'. Meanwhile, May Mustey, 45, caused a fatal collision in Monmouth, South Wales, resulting in the death of Gwendoline Owen, 75.
-
Rodric Williams, a top lawyer at the Post Office during the Horizon IT scandal, expresses regret for being associated with the miscarriage of justice. He admits to missing a key finding about remote access to the Horizon software in 2014. Victims of the scandal call for his removal from administering redress schemes. The inquiry also reveals attempts to withhold disclosure of investigation guidelines. Former Royal Mail chair apologises for wrongful prosecutions, while other officials acknowledge missed opportunities to prevent the scandal.
-
With the London Mayoral elections approaching, incumbent Sadiq Khan and Conservative candidate Susan Hall have unveiled their plans. Hall aims to scrap the Ultra Low Emission Zone expansion, while Khan pledges to end rough sleeping by 2030 with a
£10 million initiative.
-
The world's first AI beauty pageant, Miss AI, is announced by Fanvue, offering a $20,000 prize for the most attractive AI-generated woman. This comes after male contestants were consecutively chosen as 'Traitors' on The Traitors show, sparking discussions about gender dynamics in reality TV.
-
Portsmouth secures promotion to the Championship with a dramatic 3-2 win over Barnsley, while Tottenham Women's team reaches the FA Cup final for the first time with a 2-1 victory over Leicester.
-
Emma Raducanu's journey in the Stuttgart Open sees her defeat Angelique Kerber before being knocked out in the quarter-finals by Iga Swiatek.
-
The UK economy grew by 0.1% in February, following a 0.3% growth in January. This growth comes after the UK met the technical definition of recession in the third and fourth quarters of 2023.
-
Sarah Destiny accused an M&S staff member of racially profiling her and accusing her of stealing after she paid for her shopping. The incident occurred at the Purley Way, Croydon branch of M&S.
-
Children in the UK were given contaminated blood products in the 1970s and 80s, leading to hundreds being infected with hepatitis C and HIV. The victims, mainly children with haemophilia, were part of clinical trials where research goals were prioritized over patient safety. The scandal has been described as one of the worst treatment disasters in the history of the NHS.
-
Meghan Markle has officially launched her new lifestyle brand, American Riviera Orchard, by sending limited edition jars of strawberry jam to influencers across the US. The brand's soft launch included a vintage-style video of Markle cooking and arranging flowers, creating buzz around the upcoming products.
-
Prince Harry and Hugh Grant have settled their legal cases against The Sun newspaper, with both alleging intrusion and illegal practices by the publication. The cases highlight ongoing concerns about privacy and media ethics.
-
Jonathan Hogg, 37, was fatally attacked by a XL Bully dog named Poseidon while looking after his friend's dogs. The attack lasted around 10 to 15 minutes, resulting in Hogg becoming unconscious and suffering catastrophic injuries. Despite medical efforts, he was pronounced dead at Salford Royal Hospital.
-
An advert for pain relief gel Voltarol was criticized for editing out Grenfell Tower, a move described as insulting by a family bereaved by the 2017 disaster. Karim Mussilhy, whose uncle died in the fire, noticed the tower was missing from the background of the advert, leading to its removal.
-
Myra Carvalho, a woman who stalked Harry Styles by sending him 8,000 cards in less than a month, has been sentenced to 14 weeks in prison and banned from attending any event where Styles is performing.
-
Fifteen British soldiers and an alleged IRA member will not face perjury charges over the 1972 Bloody Sunday killings in Derry, Northern Ireland. The decision by the Public Prosecution Service has sparked outrage among the families of the victims, who see it as a denial of justice and accountability.
-
Scotland's Sandyford Clinic, the only service of its kind in the country, has halted the prescribing of puberty blockers and cross-sex hormones for new patients aged 16 or 17. This decision follows the Cass Review, which highlighted weak evidence for these treatments in young people experiencing gender incongruence.
-
Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden is considering blocking British investments in emerging technologies in hostile countries to prevent potential threats to UK security. He warns of the security risks of globalisation and plans to strengthen the UK's economic defences. Measures will be unveiled to restrict trade and investment with China to counter threats to the UK's open economy.
-
Former Post Office executives, including Alan Cook and David Smith, have expressed regret and apologized for their roles in the Horizon IT scandal, admitting to not realizing the extent of the Post Office's involvement in prosecuting victims. Cook apologized to subpostmasters, while Smith reflected on the missed opportunities to investigate complaints about the Horizon system.
-
Women's Six Nations teams, including Scotland and England, are preparing for important matches against Italy and Ireland. Scotland captain Rachel Malcolm and England's Mo Hunt are optimistic about their teams' performances. England's head coach John Mitchell emphasizes playing on the edge despite disciplinary issues. Scotland's Leah Bartlett looks forward to facing England's formidable forwards. England's Ellie Kildunne shines in the tournament, leading in try-scoring, points scored, and metres carried.
-
From celebrating her first birthday after being born four months premature to mourning the loss of a daughter due to medical negligence and dangerous substances, mothers share their stories of hope and heartbreak.
-
The film 'Abigail' is a gory reimagining of the 1936 horror 'Dracula's Daughter', featuring a 12-year-old ballet-loving vampire who is kidnapped for ransom. Directed by Radio Silence, the movie follows a group of criminals hired to hold the vampire captive for 24 hours, only to discover she is not an ordinary child. Despite initial promise, the film experiences a dip in quality, lacking in follow-through and comedic elements.
-
Food giants Unilever and Nestle face criticism as Unilever plans to water down its ethical pledges on plastic usage and pay, while Nestle's shareholders reject a proposal to reduce unhealthy foods. Nestle also faces a resolution to cut back on high levels of salt, sugar, and fats in its products.
-
Chelsea faces Barcelona in the Women's Champions League semi-finals, with Emma Hayes aiming to guide her team to victory after previous defeats. The match is crucial for Chelsea, who have never beaten Barcelona in the women's game, and Hayes is determined to secure the elusive Champions League title before leaving the club.
-
A Titan Airways plane, previously used by VIPs like King Charles and Queen Camilla, had to make an emergency landing after three windowpanes fell out mid-flight. The incident occurred shortly after departure from London Stansted Airport. Additionally, former Geordie Shore star Vicky Pattison was denied boarding a flight due to damage on her passport caused by her dog chewing it.
-
Rishi Sunak expresses concerns about over-medicalising normal worries as mental health conditions, highlighting the increase in long-term sickness driven by mental health issues. He plans to trial a new system where work and health professionals issue fit notes instead of GPs.
-
The UK is grappling with a surge in drug shortages, with over 1,600 alerts issued in 2023, impacting patients' access to vital medications and risking their health.
-
Former Wales winger Leighton James has passed away at the age of 71. James, who played over 600 games in the Football League, was a key figure for clubs like Burnley and Swansea, leaving a lasting impact on the teams he represented.
-
Former senior civil servant Rowaa Ahmar details racist policy conversations within the illegal migration taskforce, accusing officials of referring to 'bloody migrants' and promoting 'ultra-hostile' policies. Ahmar resigned due to a hostile racist working environment and withdrew a discrimination case against the Cabinet Office. She highlighted the unrelenting and systemic racism she faced, including being frozen out of meetings after raising concerns. Ahmar's accusations shed light on the discriminatory practices within the government department.
-
Health authorities in Japan have discovered unexpected compounds in Kobayashi Pharmaceutical's beni kōji supplements, including the toxic compound puberulic acid. Health issues have been reported among users of these supplements, prompting concerns about their safety.
-
Boston Dynamics has retired its iconic humanoid robot Atlas after a decade of impressive acrobatics and introduced a new fully electric version designed for real-world applications.
-
The Lyrid meteor shower, originating from Comet Thatcher, peaks with 10 to 20 meteors per hour expected, while the Devil Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks reaches peak brightness in Australia, offering stargazers a unique celestial event.
-
A study by Ofcom shows a rise in young children's online presence, with a quarter of 5-7 year-olds owning smartphones and using social media platforms. Parents are increasingly allowing their children to have a social media profile before the minimum age requirement, despite growing concerns about online risks.
-
Train services between London, the North, and Scotland will be disrupted due to a strike by Aslef members at LNER over terms and conditions. The strike will lead to a significant reduction in services, impacting passengers. Additionally, the RMT union has rejected Network Rail's pay rise offer, potentially leading to further disruptions. Compensation for train delays in Britain has reached record levels, surpassing £100 million annually.
-
The Welsh government is set to change legislation to revert some roads from 20mph to 30mph following concerns raised by residents and a cycling charity. Transport minister Ken Skates acknowledges the need for adjustments to the 20mph policy, aiming to strike a balance between road safety and public feedback.
-
Jack Grealish and Jofra Archer have opened up about their mental struggles in their respective sports seasons. Grealish admitted to losing confidence during the football season, impacting his performance, while Archer expressed concerns about potential future injury setbacks affecting his cricket career.
-
CalMatters has acquired The Markup to create a local, nonprofit news powerhouse in California. The deal involves no job cuts and aims to bolster CalMatters' coverage of tech and tech policy.
-
Measles cases are on the rise in the US, with vaccination rates falling below the critical threshold needed to prevent sustained transmission. The country's elimination status is at risk as cases have increased significantly in the first quarter of 2024.
-
The TV adaptation of the Fallout video game franchise has become a global hit, leading to Amazon renewing it for a second season. Set 200 years after a nuclear armageddon, the show follows Lucy as she ventures out from an underground vault to rescue her kidnapped father, receiving critical acclaim and high viewership.
-
The UK government is considering tougher restrictions on children's access to social media and smartphones, following research showing children as young as 5 owning smartphones and using social media. Parents are being asked for their views on potential restrictions, including raising the minimum age for social media use and banning smartphone sales to under-16s.
-
First Minister Humza Yousaf confirms trans women will be protected under upcoming misogyny laws, despite facing criticism from campaigners like JK Rowling for his stance on safeguarding trans women. Yousaf's decision aligns with a review by Baroness Helena Kennedy KC, which recommended a standalone bill to address misogyny. The move has sparked debate and controversy over the inclusion of trans women in the legislation.
-
Liz Truss, the former prime minister, has been blaming a range of entities for her political collapse, including anti-growth coalitions, the global left, and environmental extremists. Her memoir, 'Ten Years to Save the West,' showcases her narcissism and refusal to take responsibility for her failures.
-
Olympic gymnast Suni Lee, marathon runner Anya Culling, and teenager Millie have each faced health challenges, including kidney disease, slow marathon times, and anorexia, respectively. Despite these obstacles, they have shown remarkable strength and improvement in their performances.
-
Rat urine in New York City is causing an increase in flu-like illnesses, with a record number of cases reported in 2023. Leptospirosis, a potentially deadly bacterial infection, is being spread through rat urine, leading to severe symptoms if left untreated. In a separate incident, a dog owner is raising funds to find a cure for Alabama Rot, a rare disease affecting dogs.
-
Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce have decided not to attend the 2024 Met Gala due to scheduling conflicts and personal reasons. The event, themed 'The Garden of Time,' will honor the opening of the new Sleeping Beauties exhibit at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
-
In the Championship, eight teams are fighting to avoid relegation, while others are vying for promotion to the Premier League. England's hopes for an extra Champions League spot are fading as Manchester City and Arsenal exit the competition.
-
Nigerian chess champion Tunde Onakoya breaks the world record by playing non-stop for 58 hours in New York City's Times Square, aiming to raise $1 million for children's education across Africa.
-
Bjorn Hocke, a prominent figure in Germany's far-right AfD party, is facing trial for using a banned Nazi slogan 'Everything for Germany!' at a speech. Prosecutors allege he knowingly used symbols of unconstitutional organizations, which could result in a prison sentence of up to three years.
-
Netflix has decided to stop reporting subscriber numbers to Wall Street and shift focus to financial metrics. The streaming giant added 9.3 million subscribers in Q1, reaching a total of almost 270 million. This move comes as Netflix aims to drive revenue from existing users through ads and new business lines like games and live programming.
-
Google has fired 28 employees who protested the company's cloud computing contract with the Israeli government. The employees staged sit-ins at Google offices in New York and California, leading to their termination.
-
Tesla announces layoffs impacting more than 14,000 employees globally following disappointing first-quarter sales.
-
India's general elections kick off amidst extreme heat forecasts, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi campaigning for a third term against a struggling opposition.
-
Dubai experiences its heaviest rainfall ever recorded, leading to severe flooding, disrupting airport operations, and causing significant challenges for residents and travelers.
-
Brussels police shut down the National Conservatism Conference, where Nigel Farage and Suella Braverman were speaking, to guarantee public safety.
-
Georgia faces backlash over a controversial 'foreign agent' bill, sparking protests and violence in parliament. The ruling Georgian Dream party reintroduced the bill, leading to an assault on a party leader and mass brawls. The bill, if passed, would require organizations receiving foreign funding to register as 'foreign agents,' raising concerns about freedom of expression and civil society.
-
Mount Ruang in Indonesia's Sulawesi Island erupted, leading to the evacuation of over 11,000 people due to the dangers of ash, falling rocks, and the possibility of a tsunami. Authorities issued a tsunami warning amid fears of a potential collapse of the volcano into the sea.
-
NATO countries have confirmed the availability of air defense systems for Ukraine, following a virtual meeting between Ukraine's President Zelenskyy and NATO defense ministers. The focus is on providing more air defense support, including Patriot missile systems, to help Ukraine combat Russia's escalating missile attacks.
-
Six people have been arrested in connection with the theft of 6,600 gold bars and foreign currency worth over $20 million from Toronto's Pearson International Airport, in what is being described as Canada's largest gold heist.
-
Myanmar's Karen rebels are on the verge of capturing Myawaddy, a major trading town near the Thai border, after claiming to have taken the last of the army's outposts in the area.
-
A Polish man has been arrested for allegedly planning to assist Russian military intelligence in a plot to assassinate Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The suspect, identified as Pawel K, was seeking contact with Russians involved in the war in Ukraine and planning to pass on detailed security information about an airport in southeastern Poland. If convicted, he could face up to eight years in prison.
-
Research suggests that baby and teenage great white sharks prefer hanging out in shallow waters close to the shore, while a North Atlantic right whale has been spotted entangled in rope off New England, worsening an already devastating year for the species. Additionally, an orphaned killer whale calf stranded in a remote Vancouver Island lagoon is proving difficult for rescuers to catch.
-
World Athletics has announced that Olympic gold medalists in track and field events at the Paris Games will receive $50,000 in prize money, a first in Olympic history. The decision has sparked mixed reactions, with some praising the move as a positive step for athletes, while others express concerns about the impact on other sports and the Olympic spirit.
-
Former government adviser Bruce Lehrmann lost his defamation case after a judge ruled he raped his colleague Brittany Higgins in a Parliament House office. Justice Lee found Lehrmann's state of mind indicated he was indifferent to Higgins' consent, leading to the sexual assault.
-
Apple has removed WhatsApp and Threads from its Chinese App Store in response to orders from Chinese authorities citing national security concerns. The move comes amidst heightened tensions between the US and China over trade, technology, and national security.
-
Ukraine's Prime Minister warns of a Third World War if Ukraine loses to Russia, urging the US Congress to pass a $61 billion aid package. Former US Vice President Mike Pence also cautions that American troops may have to fight Russian invaders in Europe if Putin defeats Ukraine. US Speaker of the House Mike Johnson unveils a foreign aid plan, and President Joe Biden pledges support for the bill.
-
Nigerian troops have rescued Lydia Simon, who was abducted by Boko Haram in 2014 as a schoolgirl in Chibok. Simon, now five months pregnant, was found in Gwoza council area, 95 miles east of Chibok, along with her three children born in captivity.
-
NASA chief Bill Nelson has warned that China may be using its civilian space programs as a cover for military operations, potentially leading to a race for lunar dominance. Both NASA and China have plans to land astronauts on the Moon, with NASA aiming for 2026 and China targeting 2030. Nelson emphasized the need for the US to maintain its edge in space exploration and ensure that research efforts are used for peaceful purposes.
-
The US and EU have imposed sanctions on Israeli settlers, including Benzi Gopstein, for their involvement in violence against Palestinians in the West Bank, marking a significant move to address human rights abuses and promote peace in the region.
-
Russian activists, including Fayil Alsynov, are met with harsh sentences and repression for their advocacy work, with protests erupting in support of Alsynov in Bashkortostan.
-
Amazon is making strategic shifts in its cashier-less technology, with Walmart also adjusting its store operations.
-
The Netflix documentary 'What Jennifer Did' faces backlash for allegedly using AI-manipulated images of Jennifer Pan, a woman convicted of orchestrating a murder-for-hire scheme targeting her parents. The documentary, which shot to the top spot on Netflix, has been accused of using flawed images resembling AI-generated photos. Despite the controversy, the executive producer denies the use of AI images, stating that all images of Pan in the movie were real but edited to protect the source's identity.
-
Israel and Iran engage in a series of airstrikes, with Iran launching over 300 drones and missiles at Israel in retaliation for an attack on an Iranian consular building in Syria. Israel intercepts the majority of the projectiles and warns of a potential counterstrike. US President Biden convenes the Group of Seven to coordinate a diplomatic response and discourage further escalation.
-
Tesla is recalling nearly 4,000 Cybertrucks due to a defect in the accelerator pedal that could cause unintended acceleration, potentially leading to crashes. The recall affects all Cybertrucks made between November 13, 2023, and April 4, 2024. Tesla has not reported any accidents, injuries, or deaths related to this issue.
-
Astronomers have made significant discoveries in the Milky Way, including finding the most massive stellar black hole, Gaia-BH3, and the potential end of the Chandra X-ray Observatory due to budget cuts.
-
Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong is set to take over as Singapore's next leader on May 15, succeeding Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, who will stay on as senior minister. Wong, known for his effective handling of the pandemic, will be Singapore's fourth leader since independence in 1965.
-
Huawei launches the Pura 70 series smartphones, aiming to ship over 10.4 million units globally this year. TechInsights predicts Huawei to regain the No. 1 position in China with a 19% market share by shipping over 50 million smartphones. The Pura 70 Pro and Pura 70 Ultra have been released with high demand and long queues at stores.
-
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are set to produce two new non-fiction series for Netflix, focusing on lifestyle and polo. The shows will explore the joys of cooking, gardening, entertaining, friendship, and provide unprecedented access to the world of professional polo.
-
China is actively promoting hydrogen-powered vehicles by offering incentives such as toll waivers, subsidies, and the development of refueling stations. This initiative comes as electric vehicle enthusiasm wanes globally, with car companies adjusting production targets. Additionally, Chinese electric cargo tricycles have entered the US market, generating interest in their affordable and eco-friendly transportation solutions.
-
Chinese government-linked hackers have infiltrated US critical infrastructure, targeting companies in telecommunications, energy, and water sectors. FBI Director Christopher Wray and NSA Director Gen. Timothy D. Haugh have both raised alarms about China's efforts to gain access to critical networks, posing a significant threat to US infrastructure and national security.
-
The legalization of marijuana is on the rise in the US, with nearly half of the states allowing recreational use and a majority permitting medical cannabis. Recent developments include Bavaria banning public cannabis consumption, concerns in New York over a potential increase in pot stores, and Malawi legalizing a specific strain of cannabis for industrial and medicinal purposes.
-
General Francis Ogolla, Kenya's Chief of Defence Forces, died in a helicopter crash in Elgeyo Marakwet County. President William Ruto declared three days of national mourning for the 61-year-old general and nine others who perished in the crash.
-
The Biden administration deported around 50 Haitians back to their country amid surging gang violence. This marks the first deportation flight in months to Haiti, a nation grappling with widespread instability and violence.
-
The Philippines and the US are conducting joint military drills in the South China Sea, marking the first time the annual Balikatan exercises are being held outside the Philippines' territorial waters. The drills involve over 16,700 troops simulating various scenarios, including retaking islands and navigating disputed waters.
-
Rene Remund returned from a trip to Switzerland to find a $143,000 phone bill for 9.5GB of data roaming charges. Despite initially being told the charges were valid, he disputed them and received a credit from T-Mobile.
-
Israel has reportedly carried out strikes inside Iran near Isfahan in response to recent drone and missile attacks by Iran. The strikes come amid escalating tensions between the two countries, with fears of a broader conflict. Both Israel and Iran have confirmed the attacks, with Israel's response seen as measured to avoid further escalation.
-
Two people have been detained in Poland on suspicion of attacking Leonid Volkov, a top ally of the late Russian opposition activist Alexei Navalny, in Lithuania. The suspects, Polish citizens, are charged with intentionally harming Volkov for his political beliefs. The arrests were announced by the Lithuanian president, who praised Poland for their work. Volkov was assaulted outside his house in Vilnius, leaving him with a broken arm and leg.
-
A lethal Russian missile strike on Ukraine's historic city of Chernihiv kills at least 18 people, with dozens more wounded. President Zelensky appeals for more help from Western allies as the U.S. House of Representatives announces a vote on a military aid package for Kyiv.
-
Bluey, the Australian animated TV series, has captivated audiences worldwide with its heartwarming stories about a family of dogs. The recent release of a special episode, 'The Sign', has left viewers deeply moved, showcasing the show's ability to evoke strong emotions. Despite concerns about the show's future, the producer has confirmed that Bluey will return for another series, ensuring fans can look forward to more heartwarming adventures.
-
Croatia's constitutional court has ruled that President Zoran Milanović cannot become prime minister following the recent parliamentary elections, where the ruling conservative party won the most seats but not enough to form a government alone.
-
Google is laying off employees in its real estate and finance departments, with some roles being moved abroad. The company cites the need to align with its highest priority areas and make more helpful products for users. The layoffs are part of Google's ongoing efforts to cut costs and streamline operations.
-
The Kennedy family is divided over Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s independent presidential bid, with some members endorsing Joe Biden while others support Kennedy Jr. who secured a spot on the Michigan ballot. Concerns arise over the impact of Kennedy Jr.'s candidacy on the presidential race.
-
President Biden has announced a significant increase in tariffs on Chinese steel and aluminum imports, aiming to protect American manufacturing and jobs from competition. This move comes amidst a surge of cheap exports from China, threatening Biden's economic agenda focused on revitalizing American industries.
-
Jamie Dimon, CEO of JPMorgan Chase, has issued warnings about potential economic mishaps, citing global tensions, inflation, and interest rate hikes as key concerns.
-
The Federal Reserve, led by Chair Jerome Powell, is signaling a delay in interest rate cuts due to ongoing concerns about high inflation levels, which may impact the timing of future rate adjustments.
-
The US EPA and Biden administration have implemented new rules to limit 'forever chemicals' in drinking water, aiming to reduce exposure and prevent health issues.
-
The United States vetoed a UN Security Council resolution granting full UN membership to Palestine amidst the ongoing war in Gaza, facing pressure to address the crisis.
-
A man set himself on fire outside the New York courthouse where Donald Trump's hush-money trial was taking place. The man, identified as Max Azzarello, did not appear to be targeting Trump or others involved in the trial. He burned for several minutes in full view of television cameras before succumbing to his injuries the following day.
-
Volkswagen workers in Tennessee have voted to join the United Auto Workers union, marking a landmark victory for organized labor in the South. This success comes after two previous failed attempts by the UAW to organize the Chattanooga factory, and follows record wage gains and improved benefits secured by the UAW in negotiations with Detroit automakers.
-
Former President Donald Trump faces intense scrutiny in his hush-money trial, with prosecutors planning to question him about previous allegations of misconduct and crimes, including falsifying business records to conceal a payment to Stormy Daniels.
-
Three sailors in their 40s were rescued from Pikelot Atoll in the Pacific Ocean after being stranded for over a week. They used palm leaves to spell out 'HELP' on the beach, guiding rescue efforts to their location. The men had set out from Polowat Atoll on a fishing expedition but hit a coral reef, causing their boat to take on water.
-
Celebrity chef David Chang has apologized for Momofuku's attempt to trademark the term 'chili crunch' after facing backlash from Asian American small business owners.
-
The IRS reports that nearly a million people have not filed 2020 tax returns, missing out on over $1 billion in refunds. Despite an increase in the average tax refund to $3,011, fewer taxpayers are receiving refunds this year. Some Americans face delays in receiving refunds due to various reasons. The IRS is highlighting customer service improvements after receiving new funding, aiming to enhance efficiency. The Tax Day deadline for most Americans to file federal income tax returns and extensions is approaching.
-
Arizona Republicans have upheld a contentious 1864 abortion ban despite Democratic efforts to repeal it. Donald Trump's shifting views on a national abortion ban have caused confusion, with recent statements opposing it. Vice President Kamala Harris has accused Trump of trying to roll back women's rights and gaslighting America over his abortion views.
-
Caitlin Clark and Paige Bueckers, two standout players in women's basketball, have been making waves both on and off the court. Clark became the all-time leading scorer in college basketball history, while Bueckers gained internet fame for her supportive presence at the WNBA draft. The women's NCAA championship game also surpassed the men's in viewership, highlighting the growing interest in women's sports.
-
Poultry and cattle farms in the US are battling outbreaks of avian flu, with millions of birds affected and the virus spreading to cattle. The Department of Agriculture has reported evidence of the virus spreading from cows to poultry, indicating a wider infection than previously believed. Bird flu viruses have been detected in cows and goats, with a US worker contracting the disease after exposure to cattle.
-
Shant Soghomonian, 35, was arrested for setting a fire outside U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders' office in Vermont. Security footage showed him spraying a liquid on the door and setting it ablaze. No one was hurt in the incident.
-
The executor of OJ Simpson's estate has suggested that the families of Nicole Brown and Ron Goldman will be paid from his estate, following his death at age 76. Simpson was cleared of their murders in 1995 but found liable in a civil lawsuit. The executor aims to prevent a $33.5m payout to the families, with Simpson's will filed in a Nevada court.
-
Premieres of 'Music for New Bodies' in Houston and 'El Nino' at the Metropolitan Opera, along with the release of Jeymes Samuel's film 'The Book of Clarence' and performances by Germaine Acogny and Malou Airaudo at Sadler's Wells Elixir festival showcase groundbreaking works in music, theater, and dance.
-
Stephen Curry, LeBron James, and Kevin Durant headline the star-studded United States Olympic basketball squad for the Paris Games, aiming for a fifth consecutive gold medal.
-
Maine and Iowa have passed contrasting gun safety legislation in response to recent mass shootings. Maine's measures include background checks and waiting periods, while Iowa allows trained teachers to carry guns on school property. Additionally, the Justice Department has launched a gun intelligence center in Chicago to reduce violent crime.
-
Jury selection in the hush money trial of former President Donald Trump resumes with 12 jurors and one alternate sworn in, as concerns are raised over the accuracy of answers and a juror is excused. Trump faces charges of falsifying business records in a case involving alleged payoffs to two women. The trial is the first of Trump's four indictments to reach trial and could have significant implications for his legal future.