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Liverpool bids an emotional farewell to Jurgen Klopp as he manages his final game at Anfield after nine successful years, marked by numerous trophies and a deep connection with the club and its fans.
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Britain has fallen out of the top 10 countries in the Chandler Global Index for Good Government, now ranking 11th due to weak leadership, poor economic management, and the impact of Brexit. The UK scored poorly in categories such as leadership and foresight, and financial stewardship, placing 20th and 27th respectively. Brexit significantly hurt the UK's international trade score, dropping by 26 places.
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Multiple individuals in the US and Kazakhstan have been sentenced to life in prison or lengthy terms for horrific crimes, including burying a wife alive, stabbing a young man to death, and torturing and murdering a wife.
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The UK Labour Party's success in recent local elections has been overshadowed by a voter backlash over its stance on Gaza. The party's support has waned in areas with high Muslim populations due to its perceived support for Israel's actions in Gaza, leading to concerns about its ability to secure a majority in the upcoming general election. Additionally, a Palestinian student had her visa revoked after participating in a pro-Palestine demonstration, highlighting the contentious nature of the issue.
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Scientists from the University of Western Australia and Kelpie Geosciences in the UK have captured rare footage of the Taningia Danae squid at a depth of over 1km in the South Pacific. The squid, known for its bioluminescent 'headlights,' was filmed wrapping its arms around a camera, mistaking it for prey. The footage, released on May 16, 2024, provides new insights into the behavior of this elusive deep-sea predator.
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Recent fundraising efforts in the UK have seen significant contributions to cancer research and awareness. Glasgow's Race for Life raised £750,000 for Cancer Research UK, while £6,000,000 has been raised in memory of Stephen Sutton for the Teenage Cancer Trust. Additionally, Figen Murray has embarked on a 200-mile walk to Downing Street to advocate for Martyn's Law, which aims to improve security measures at public venues following the Manchester Arena bombing.
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The Scottish Government's ambition to be smoke-free by 2034 may be hindered by a potential ban on disposable vapes, which are seen as crucial smoking cessation tools. Health Minister Dame Andrea Leadsom has proposed restricting vape advertisements to curb youth vaping. Meanwhile, a study has revealed that chemicals in flavoured vapes could be highly toxic when heated. Hannah Roth's severe lung damage from excessive vaping highlights the health risks. The Tobacco and Vapes Bill aims to ban cigarette sales to those born after 2009 and make vaping less attractive to young people.
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Rufus Wainwright's musical 'Opening Night,' which premiered at London's Gielgud Theatre in March 2024, is closing two months early on May 18, 2024, due to mixed reviews and slow ticket sales. Wainwright attributes the negative reception to Brexit, suggesting that it has narrowed the UK's creative outlook. The musical, directed by Ivo van Hove and starring Sheridan Smith, faced criticism for its avant-garde elements, leading to audience walkouts and a 'vitriolic reaction.'
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Victims of the contaminated blood scandal, including Christopher Marsh and Brendan West, seek justice as the Infected Blood Inquiry prepares to publish its final report. The scandal has left a devastating impact on individuals like Peter Lloyd, Rob Brown, and Sam Rushby, who were unknowingly infected with diseases like hepatitis C and HIV through blood transfusions.
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The Bank of England is considering a potential interest rate cut this summer, with the deputy governor suggesting a decrease in borrowing costs due to a fall in inflation. Analysts are divided on the likelihood of a rebound in inflation later in the year, which could impact the decision for rate cuts.
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The Met Office has issued yellow weather warnings for thunderstorms across the UK, following the hottest day of the year. Heavy rain and thunderstorms are expected to hit Wales, south-west England, Northern Ireland, and Scotland, potentially causing flooding and power cuts. The warnings are in place from Sunday afternoon through to Monday morning, with the heaviest rain expected in the west of the UK. The Met Office advises residents to prepare for travel disruptions and possible power outages.
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Greater Manchester Police have contacted Labour's deputy leader Angela Rayner to arrange an interview under caution regarding her housing arrangements and potential breaches of electoral law and tax regulations. Rayner has stated she will cooperate fully with the investigation. Shadow Health Secretary Wes Streeting has defended Rayner, suggesting the probe is driven by snobbery due to her working-class background.
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The Northern Lights, also known as aurora borealis, could be visible again in the UK in the coming weeks due to increased solar activity. Recent geomagnetic storms have made the lights visible across the UK and parts of Europe. Experts from the Met Office and other institutions predict that the sunspot region responsible for these storms will rotate back towards Earth, potentially causing more displays. The sun is currently in its most active period of an 11-year cycle, increasing the likelihood of such events.
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Crawley manager Scott Lindsey's personal tragedies, including the loss of his brother and wife, inspired him to lead his team to promotion after a 2-0 victory over Crewe in the League Two play-off final at Wembley.
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The UK is facing a shortage of planes for a mass parachute drop to mark the 80th anniversary of D-Day. Defence Secretary Grant Shapps has ordered an urgent review to address the lack of available aircrafts for the commemorations in Normandy next month.
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A new study by the British Antarctic Survey links the record low sea ice extent around Antarctica in 2023 to human-caused global warming. The study found that the low sea ice levels were a rare event, with modern greenhouse gas levels making it four times more likely. Additionally, CUHK recently hosted a global climate conference to discuss polar studies and climate change.
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Schools in England are under pressure to improve attendance, with some employing strict measures such as police visits to homes of persistently absent students. Education Secretary Gillian Keegan has linked increased absenteeism to parents working from home post-pandemic. Critics argue that these measures ignore underlying issues like mental health and special educational needs. The debate continues as the government plans to enforce stricter attendance policies from September.
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A new study has revealed that the weight-loss drug semaglutide, sold under brand names such as Wegovy and Ozempic, can significantly reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes in obese individuals, regardless of the amount of weight lost. The five-year study, involving 17,604 adults from 41 countries, showed a 20% reduction in major cardiovascular events. The findings were presented at the European Congress on Obesity and published in Nature Medicine.
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Ofcom is considering a statutory sanction against GB News for breaching impartiality rules during an interview with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. The channel allowed Sunak to promote government policies without sufficient challenge, leading to 13 breaches of broadcast rules. The regulator found that the programme failed to provide alternative viewpoints and audience members were unable to challenge the prime minister's responses.
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A National Audit Office report reveals delays and unnecessary spending on Brexit border controls, with the government estimated to have spent £4.7bn so far. The lack of a clear timetable for full implementation of post-Brexit border controls is causing uncertainty for businesses and extra costs for the government and ports.
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Welsh First Minister Vaughan Gething faces criticism and political turmoil after accepting a controversial donation for his leadership campaign and sacking a minister over a leaked text message. Plaid Cymru has ended its cooperation deal with Labour in the Senedd, complicating the government's ability to operate without a majority.
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Apple has issued an apology for its recent iPad Pro advertisement, which depicted creative tools being crushed by a hydraulic press. The ad, intended to showcase the new iPad's capabilities, faced significant backlash for its perceived message of technology replacing human creativity. Critics, including high-profile figures like Hugh Grant, expressed their disapproval, leading Apple to pull the ad from TV. In response, Samsung released a video emphasizing that 'creativity cannot be crushed.'
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Kevin Spacey, facing fresh sexual misconduct allegations, seeks a return to Hollywood with support from stars like Liam Neeson and Sharon Stone. Hollywood figures campaign for Spacey's comeback, while comedians Bill Maher and Bill Burr advocate for Louis CK's return amidst the #MeToo movement.
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JK Rowling is embroiled in a transphobia row after a Scottish Green party candidate called her a 'torn-faced cow' on social media. Rowling faced backlash for misgendering and criticizing trans football manager Lucy Clark. She is set to publish an essay defending 'sex-based rights' of women in Scotland.
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Nicola Sturgeon resigns as Scotland's first minister citing backlash over transgender law reforms. John Swinney accepts transgender women are defined as women.
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Manchester City secured their fourth consecutive Premier League title with a 3-1 victory over West Ham. Phil Foden scored twice early on, and Rodri added a third after Mohammed Kudus pulled one back for West Ham. This historic win makes City the first English team to achieve four straight top-flight titles. Arsenal finished second for the second consecutive year despite their 2-1 win over Everton. Pep Guardiola hinted at uncertainty about his future with the club, citing a lack of new challenges.
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Universities in England are facing a financial crisis with 40% forecasted to run budget deficits this year. Vice-chancellors and former ministers are calling for urgent fee increases or funding to prevent bankruptcies. The higher education regulator warns of closure risks for universities unless they cut costs or merge. Aberystwyth University also announces job cuts to save money.
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Ticket touts jailed for running a fraudulent trading scheme worth over £6.5m, Viagogo apologises for mistakenly advertising illegal football tickets, and Roger Daltrey criticises Royal Albert Hall members for profiting from charity gig tickets.
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UK Foreign Secretary David Cameron is set to provide evidence to MPs on the planned treaty for Gibraltar amid concerns over potential loss of control of British territories post-Brexit. Talks on a post-Brexit deal between Gibraltar and Spain have recently ended without an agreement.
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Long-term UK residents Anthony Olubunmi George and Nelson Shardey face removal threats from the Home Office despite living in the country for decades. George, who arrived from Nigeria in 1986, and Shardey, who came from Ghana in 1977, are both fighting to remain in the UK after facing legal challenges and citizenship issues.
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Scottish scientists at the University of Dundee have found that the hormone leptin, present in everyone, could be a key player in stopping the progression of early-stage Alzheimer's disease. Their research has shown that leptin can counteract the effects of toxic proteins in the brain linked to Alzheimer's, potentially slowing or halting the disease's development. By identifying specific amino acid fragments within leptin, the scientists have laid the groundwork for the development of new drugs that could combat Alzheimer's in its early stages.
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The Scottish Government is proposing to release prisoners serving sentences under four years to address overcrowding in prisons. Justice Secretary Angela Constance seeks powers to release inmates early, excluding those convicted of sexual or domestic abuse offenses. The Scottish Tories oppose the plans, citing concerns about public safety and high rates of re-offending.
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Rising housing costs and intense competition in the rental market are pushing many individuals and families to make difficult decisions. Michael and Christy Rogers have chosen to remain renters due to financial constraints, while Melissa Hedden was evicted after a rent increase. Nicola Webb, a first-time homebuyer, opted for a 35-year mortgage to afford her home. The rental market is highly competitive, with properties being listed for shorter periods, making it challenging for potential tenants to secure housing.
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The debate over universal basic income (UBI) and its alternatives is intensifying in the UK. AI pioneer Geoffrey Hinton has advocated for UBI to address job losses due to AI, while Martin Lewis advises households to check their eligibility for Universal Credit. Sam Altman proposes 'universal basic compute' as a new model for resource distribution. Meanwhile, Munira Wilson highlights the issue of child hunger due to strict free school meal eligibility criteria.
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Rishi Sunak is banking on the UK's inflation rate hitting the Bank of England's target, while public inquiries, including the Infected Blood Inquiry's final report and Vaughan Gething's donation scandal, take center stage in British politics this week.
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Labour proposes a plan to implement shared NHS waiting lists, aiming to deliver an additional 40,000 appointments weekly. Healthwatch England research shows 71% of people in England desire urgent GP access within 24 hours. An internal NHS review highlights a 15% increase in patients stuck in hospitals for over three weeks.
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The documentary 'Catching Fire' delves into the enigmatic life of Anita Pallenberg, a model, actor, and muse to the Rolling Stones. It explores her relationships with Brian Jones and Keith Richards, her unconventional approach to life, and the impact of drugs on her journey.
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Experts Karyn Esser and Guy Fieri share their fitness journeys and tips for staying healthy and fit. Esser emphasizes the importance of consistency for maintaining fitness, while Fieri has lost weight through a healthy diet and workout routine.
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Labour's plans to cut licenses for new oil and gas exploration in the North Sea have sparked controversy, with Unite launching a campaign to protect jobs in the industry. Meanwhile, Labour's commitment to upgrading ports for renewable energy signals a shift towards a greener economy.
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A landmark inquiry in the UK has revealed that Scottish patients were infected with HIV and Hepatitis C after being given contaminated blood without their knowledge. The inquiry found that many patients, particularly those with haemophilia, were used for AIDS research without consent. The scandal, affecting over 30,000 people in the UK, has led to calls for compensation and accountability for the victims.
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The UK Infected Blood Inquiry has published its final report, revealing failings that affected over 30,000 people in the 1970s and 1980s. Nearly 2,000 victims are living with undetected hepatitis C. Compensation exceeding £10 billion is set to be announced, with the Prime Minister expected to issue an official apology.
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Manchester City make history by winning their fourth consecutive Premier League title, becoming the first team in English history to achieve this feat. Despite their remarkable success, City still face 115 Premier League charges for alleged financial irregularities.
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A landmark public inquiry has exposed a chilling cover-up by politicians, doctors, and civil servants of the infected blood scandal in the NHS. More than 30,000 patients were infected with deadly viruses between the 1970s and 1990s, with over 3,000 deaths. The inquiry found deliberate attempts to conceal the disaster, including destroying documents and knowingly exposing patients to infection risks.
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A long-awaited report on the infected blood scandal reveals that over 30,000 people were knowingly infected with HIV or Hepatitis C from the 1970s to 1991, with around 3,000 deaths. The report points to failures by the government, NHS, and blood services, including a lack of patient safety measures and deliberate deception. The inquiry chair calls for immediate compensation and testing for all who received blood transfusions before 1996.
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Celtic fans caused damage in Glasgow during celebrations for their premiership win, leaving debris and broken glass around Glasgow Cross and Trongate. Glasgow City Council teams worked through the night to clean up the streets ahead of the Cancer Research UK Race for Life event.
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Virgin Atlantic faces a lawsuit from over 200 former cabin crew members for unfair dismissals during the pandemic. United Airlines flight diverts to Shannon, Ireland, after a passenger's laptop gets stuck in a seat.
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The final inquiry report into the NHS infected blood scandal, where around 3,000 people were given contaminated blood in the 1970s and 80s, is set to be released. Victims have endured decades of waiting for answers, with compensation payments potentially exceeding £10 billion. The scandal, considered the worst treatment disaster in NHS history, has claimed thousands of lives due to HIV and hepatitis C infections from blood products. Families affected by this tragedy are finally on the brink of receiving justice and closure.
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Leo Lukenas III, a former Green Beret and Bank of America employee, died at 35 from a blood clot, sparking concerns over work conditions on Wall Street. His death came after reportedly working 100-hour weeks. A second Bank of America employee, Adnan Deumic, also passed away suddenly during a charity soccer tournament, though the cause of death is unknown.
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Bob MacIntyre secures a top-ten finish in the 106th PGA Championship at Valhalla, finishing in a tie for eighth place after a solid performance. He eagles the 72nd hole to secure his spot in next year's event, marking a significant achievement for the Scottish golfer.
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Virgin Group has submitted proposals to operate new train services on the West Coast main line, aiming to compete with Avanti West Coast. The plans include routes between London Euston and Manchester, Liverpool, Birmingham, and Glasgow. Meanwhile, FirstGroup has applied to expand its Lumo services to include six daily return journeys between London and Rochdale via Manchester Victoria, starting in 2027. Both applications are part of a broader push for open access rail services to increase competition and consumer choice.
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Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian have been confirmed dead following a helicopter crash in Iran's East Azerbaijan province. The helicopter, which was part of a convoy returning from a dam inauguration near the Azerbaijani border, suffered a 'hard landing' on Sunday. Rescue teams faced challenging weather conditions, including heavy fog and rain, which delayed their efforts. The wreckage was eventually located early Monday, with no signs of life detected. The crash has prompted a significant response from both Iranian and international communities.
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Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi has died in a helicopter crash in the mountainous region near the Azerbaijan border. The helicopter, which also carried Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian and other officials, lost contact on Sunday afternoon. After an extensive search hampered by poor weather, the wreckage was found early Monday. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has announced a five-day mourning period and appointed Mohammad Mokhber as interim president. The crash is attributed to bad weather conditions.
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Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian died in a helicopter crash on May 19, 2024. Raisi, a loyalist to Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, was considered a potential successor to Khamenei. The Iranian constitution mandates elections within 50 days following a president's death. Analysts expect little change in Iran's foreign or domestic policies, as the Supreme Leader and the Revolutionary Guards set the strategic direction. The immediate impact will be internal political maneuvering, with Vice-President Mohammed Mokhber assuming temporary control.
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Sean 'Diddy' Combs has publicly apologized after CNN released a video showing him physically assaulting his ex-girlfriend, Cassie Ventura, in 2016. The footage, aired on May 17, 2024, shows Combs punching, kicking, and dragging Ventura in a hotel hallway. In a video statement posted on May 19, 2024, Combs expressed his remorse, calling his actions 'inexcusable' and taking full responsibility. Ventura had previously sued Combs for years of abuse, a case that was settled quickly. The release of the video has reignited scrutiny and led to further legal actions against Combs.
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Sean 'Diddy' Combs has issued an apology following the release of a 2016 video showing him assaulting his former girlfriend, Cassie Ventura, in a Los Angeles hotel. The video, aired by CNN on May 17, 2024, comes six months after Ventura filed a lawsuit against Combs, alleging years of abuse. The lawsuit was settled a day after it was filed. Combs' apology, posted on Instagram, described his behavior as 'inexcusable.' The footage has corroborated Ventura's claims and has led to further scrutiny and additional lawsuits against Combs.
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Julian Assange, the founder of WikiLeaks, has been granted permission by the High Court in London to appeal his extradition to the United States. Assange faces 18 charges in the U.S., including espionage and conspiracy to commit computer intrusion. His legal team argued that U.S. assurances regarding his First Amendment rights and protection from the death penalty were inadequate. The decision allows Assange to challenge the extradition order further, prolonging his legal battle.
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The International Criminal Court (ICC) prosecutor Karim Khan announced on May 20, 2024, that he is seeking arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, and three Hamas leaders: Yahya Sinwar, Mohammed Deif, and Ismail Haniyeh. The charges include war crimes and crimes against humanity related to the seven-month war between Israel and Hamas. Israel's Foreign Minister Israel Katz and War Cabinet Minister Benny Gantz have condemned the ICC's decision, calling it a historic disgrace and a crime of historic proportions.
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Benny Gantz, a senior Israeli politician and former IDF general, has threatened to resign from the war cabinet if Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu does not present a long-term plan for Gaza by June 8. Gantz's ultimatum follows Defense Minister Yoav Gallant's public criticism of Netanyahu's handling of the Gaza conflict and his demand to rule out Israeli governance in Gaza. The Israeli government is facing internal divisions over the future of Gaza, with Netanyahu insisting on defeating Hamas before discussing post-war plans.
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Spain's Socialist party, led by Salvador Illa, emerged victorious in Catalonia's regional elections, marking a significant shift away from pro-independence parties. Despite winning the most seats, Illa's party did not secure an outright majority, necessitating complex negotiations to form a government. Carles Puigdemont, the exiled leader of the hardline separatist party Together, aims to form a minority pro-independence coalition, though his chances appear slim. The election results indicate a decline in support for Catalan independence, a significant development in the region's political landscape.
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OpenAI, the company behind ChatGPT, is experiencing significant leadership changes. Co-founder and chief scientist Ilya Sutskever and Jan Leike, co-leader of the Superalignment team, have both resigned. Their departures come amid internal disagreements over the company's priorities and safety measures. OpenAI has also dissolved its Superalignment team, integrating its work into other research teams. These changes follow the launch of OpenAI's latest AI model, GPT-4o.
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On May 17, 2024, gunmen attacked a group of tourists in Bamiyan, Afghanistan, killing three Spanish nationals and three Afghans. The attack, which occurred in a busy marketplace, also injured seven people, including foreigners from Spain, Norway, Australia, and Latvia. ISIS claimed responsibility, stating the attack targeted European Union citizens. The Taliban arrested four suspects and condemned the attack. Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez expressed his shock and vowed to seek justice for the victims.
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Thailand's Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has announced plans to re-list cannabis as a narcotic by the end of 2024, reversing the country's 2022 decision to decriminalize the drug. The move aims to restrict cannabis use to medical purposes only, citing concerns over misuse and crime. A recent survey indicates that 76% of Thai nationals support the policy reversal. Pro-cannabis groups have protested the decision, arguing it will harm the burgeoning cannabis industry and local farmers. The policy shift follows rapid growth in the cannabis sector, which has seen thousands of dispensaries and businesses emerge nationwide.
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Brazil's southern state of Rio Grande do Sul is grappling with severe flooding that has killed at least 155 people and displaced over 540,000. The state government plans to build four 'tent cities' to accommodate 77,000 displaced residents. Governor Eduardo Leite has indicated that rebuilding costs will be higher than initially estimated. The Brazilian government has announced 12.1 billion reais in emergency spending and is finalizing plans for direct payments to affected families. The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) is providing aid, and the U.S. has pledged assistance.
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The European Union has approved a comprehensive overhaul of its migration and asylum policies, aiming to strengthen borders and share responsibilities among member states. The New Pact on Migration and Asylum, backed by a majority of EU nations despite opposition from Hungary and Poland, will come into effect in 2026. The reform includes guidelines for screening migrants and determining their eligibility for protection or deportation. Critics argue the pact infringes on asylum rights and may lead to more political deals with poorer countries.
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Lawrence Wong has been sworn in as Singapore's fourth prime minister, succeeding Lee Hsien Loong. Wong, 51, who also retains his role as finance minister, takes over at a time of significant challenges, including economic pressures and geopolitical uncertainties. The leadership transition marks the end of a two-decade tenure by Lee, who transformed Singapore into a global financial hub. Wong's appointment is part of a carefully planned succession by the ruling People's Action Party (PAP), which aims to maintain stability and continuity in the city-state.
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On May 19, 2024, the Democratic Republic of Congo's army foiled a coup attempt involving attacks on the presidential palace and the residence of a close ally of President Felix Tshisekedi. The coup attempt, led by self-exiled opposition figure Christian Malanga, resulted in a shootout that left six people dead, including Malanga. Around 50 perpetrators were arrested, including three Americans. The incident occurred amid a crisis within Tshisekedi's ruling party over a postponed parliamentary leadership election.
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Israeli right-wing activists have been blocking and attacking humanitarian aid convoys heading to Gaza. The Tzav 9 group, opposing aid while Israeli hostages are held by Hamas, has been responsible for several incidents, including setting trucks on fire and spilling aid onto roads. Peace activists from Standing Together have intervened to protect some convoys. The attacks have drawn international condemnation, with calls for the Israeli government to ensure the safe passage of aid.
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Russian forces continue to target Ukraine, launching deadly attacks on various regions, resulting in casualties and damage to critical infrastructure.
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Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico was shot multiple times on May 15, 2024, in Handlova. He underwent a five-hour emergency surgery followed by a second operation to remove dead tissue. The suspect, identified as 71-year-old Juraj C., has been charged with premeditated attempted murder. Fico's condition has stabilized but remains serious. The attack, the first major assassination attempt on a European leader in over 20 years, has sent shockwaves across Europe.
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Heavy seasonal rains have caused devastating flash floods in northern Afghanistan, resulting in hundreds of deaths and widespread destruction. The floods began on May 10, 2024, in Baghlan province and have since affected multiple regions, including Ghor, Herat, and Faryab. Rescue operations are ongoing, with the Taliban government and international organizations providing aid. The death toll has risen to over 300, with thousands of homes destroyed and significant financial losses reported.
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Mount Ibu, a volcano in Indonesia, erupted, sending ash 4km high and leading to evacuations in seven nearby villages. The eruption is part of a series of volcanic activities in Indonesia, located on the Pacific 'Ring of Fire'.
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Jerry Seinfeld faced protests during his recent public appearances due to his support for Israel amid the Gaza conflict. On May 12, 2024, dozens of students walked out during his commencement speech at Duke University, chanting 'Free Palestine.' A week later, on May 19, 2024, pro-Gaza protesters disrupted his stand-up show in Norfolk, New Jersey. Seinfeld, who has been vocal about his support for Israel, largely avoided addressing the protests directly during his speeches.
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Senior American and Iranian officials held indirect talks in Oman this past week, marking the first such discussions since Iran's missile assault on Israel in April. The talks aimed to de-escalate regional tensions and address the actions of Iran's proxies. This comes amid heightened tensions following the crash of a helicopter carrying Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and other top officials. The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, along with Iran's involvement, has raised fears of a wider war in the Middle East.
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Today, voters in the Dominican Republic are casting their ballots in a presidential election that serves as a referendum on incumbent President Luis Abinader's policies, particularly his hardline stance on the border with Haiti. Abinader, who is seeking re-election, has gained popularity through his handling of the COVID-19 crisis, anti-corruption measures, and economic growth. However, his strict immigration policies and border wall construction have drawn international criticism. The election will determine whether Abinader secures a second term or if a runoff will be necessary.
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The United Auto Workers (UAW) union faced a setback as Mercedes-Benz workers in Alabama voted against unionizing. This defeat follows recent UAW victories, including a successful union vote at a Volkswagen plant in Tennessee and a new contract for Daimler Truck workers in North Carolina. The vote, which saw 56% of Mercedes workers rejecting the union, highlights the challenges the UAW faces in organizing auto plants in the traditionally anti-union South.
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Netflix has signed a three-season deal with the NFL to stream two Christmas Day games starting in 2024. This marks Netflix's first foray into live sports with a major league, aiming to leverage the NFL's massive audience to boost its advertising business. The deal includes streaming at least one game on Christmas in 2025 and 2026. This move follows Netflix's recent ventures into live events and sports-related programming.
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Boeing's Starliner spacecraft, intended to transport astronauts to the International Space Station, has faced multiple delays due to technical issues. The latest setback occurred on May 6, 2024, when a valve problem on the Atlas V rocket halted the launch. NASA has rescheduled the launch for May 17. ValveTech, a NASA contractor, has urged additional safety checks before proceeding. Boeing also identified a helium leak on the spacecraft, further complicating the timeline. These delays have significant implications for Boeing's commercial crew program and its competition with SpaceX.
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On May 19, 2024, Blue Origin's NS-25 mission successfully launched from West Texas, marking the company's first crewed spaceflight since 2022. Among the six passengers was Ed Dwight, a 90-year-old former Air Force captain and the first Black astronaut candidate in the U.S. Dwight, who was passed over by NASA in the 1960s, became the oldest person to reach space. The 11-minute suborbital flight allowed passengers to experience weightlessness and view Earth's horizon before safely landing back in Texas.
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US authorities have charged Chinese nationals in a $73 million cryptocurrency scam, while two brothers have been arrested and charged with exploiting the Ethereum blockchain to steal $25 million worth of crypto.
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Disneyland character performers in Anaheim, California, have voted to unionize with the Actors' Equity Association. The vote, which took place over three days and concluded on Saturday, saw 953 cast members in favor and 258 against. The unionization aims to address issues such as safety, scheduling, and wages. This move follows a trend of increased union support in the entertainment industry, including recent actions by the Writers Guild of America.
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Former President Donald Trump solicited a $1 billion donation from oil executives during a meeting at his Mar-a-Lago resort last month. Trump promised to reverse many of President Joe Biden's environmental policies if elected, in exchange for the contribution.
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President Joe Biden addressed the graduating class of Morehouse College, a historically Black institution, on May 19, 2024. Despite initial backlash from students and alumni over his stance on the Gaza conflict, Biden's speech was well-received. He reaffirmed his commitment to fighting white supremacy and supporting democracy. The event is part of Biden's campaign efforts in Georgia, a key swing state, amid concerns about waning support from young Black voters.