President Trump expresses extreme frustration with Iran's leaders as the five-month conflict yields limited progress, causing rising oil prices, inflation, and increasing US casualties. The war faces growing domestic opposition from the public and Congress, impacting Trump's political support.
A US National Academies of Science report confirms climate attribution science's growing maturity in linking extreme weather events to climate change, increasing prospects for corporate liability. This scientific progress has triggered political backlash and threats to the Academies' funding from the fossil fuel industry and some politicians.
Prediction markets show the US narrowly favored over Belgium in the World Cup round-of-16 after FIFA cleared striker Folarin Balogun to play despite a red card. The decision, influenced by US President Trump's lobbying, has drawn significant criticism from European soccer officials, who cite concerns about disciplinary precedent and political intervention.
Israel is angry and worried about the US-Iran memorandum of understanding, despite Prime Minister Netanyahu's public restraint. The deal, which includes a reconstruction plan for Iran and a termination of military operations, has upended Israeli assumptions about its "special relationship" with the US. Israel responded to the agreement by pounding Lebanon, leading to a reported ceasefire likely due to US pressure.
Starbucks Korea will close over 2,000 stores for mandatory history and social sensitivity training after a promotion on May 18, the anniversary of the Gwangju massacre, sparked public outrage and boycotts. The closures will cost an estimated $1.4m in lost sales.
The Trump administration has abandoned plans for a $1.8 billion "Anti-Weaponization Fund" intended to compensate individuals who felt unfairly targeted by the justice system. The decision followed intense political backlash from both Democrats and Republicans concerned about oversight and potential payouts to Jan. 6 rioters.
The US administration has temporarily suspended a $1.8 billion fund intended for Trump supporters, following federal court rulings and widespread backlash from lawmakers, including within the Republican party. The fund, established as part of a settlement with the IRS, faced accusations of rewarding political allies and potentially those involved in the January 6th Capitol attack.
Donald Trump is reportedly reconsidering a $1.8bn fund for allies after facing legal challenges and political backlash, including from within his own party. The fund, intended to compensate victims of politicized prosecutions, has been temporarily blocked by a judge and criticized as a "Maga slush fund."
The UK has controversially eased sanctions on Russian crude oil imports for diesel and jet fuel to prevent shortages, as the Iran war disrupts global supply. The move, not mirrored by the EU, faces political backlash.
Czech lawmakers declared opposition to the annual Sudeten German meeting in Brno, citing historical revisionism. The symbolic, non-binding motion passed amid protests and a boycott by opposition parties, while organizers and Sudeten German leaders emphasize reconciliation.
