South Korea is on edge as thousands rally ahead of a snap presidential election triggered by the impeachment of ex-leader Yoon Suk Yeol. Liberal candidate Lee Jae-myung leads in polls, while conservative Kim Moon-soo faces an uphill battle. Rallies highlight deep divisions, with supporters clashing over Yoon's legacy and election integrity, foreshadowing potential instability regardless of the outcome.
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German Chancellor Friedrich Merz pledged support to Ukraine in developing long-range missile systems, free from Western restrictions. This intensified cooperation aims to equip Ukraine for self-defense, including striking military targets beyond its territory. Simultaneously, Russia proposed peace talks in Istanbul, but Ukraine awaits a promised memorandum outlining Moscow's position.
Top security officials at the Shangri-La Dialogue highlighted the interconnectedness of global security, citing China and North Korea's support for Russia as evidence of blurred regional lines. Concerns were raised that Russia's success in Ukraine could embolden China in the Indo-Pacific, particularly regarding Taiwan. A unified global approach is needed to address the coordinated authoritarian axis of Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea.
Following Paris Saint-Germain's Champions League victory, celebrations in Paris turned violent, resulting in clashes between fans and police. At least two people died, and 559 were arrested after riots erupted near the Champs-Elysees and Parc des Princes, where thousands watched the match. Previously, violence also occurred after PSG's semi-final win, prompting a heavy police presence of 5,400 officers across the city.
The US vetoed a UN Security Council resolution demanding an immediate Gaza ceasefire and unrestricted aid access, citing its failure to condemn Hamas. This occurred amidst ongoing Israeli operations and rising casualties. While most members supported the resolution, the US, Israel's key ally, insisted on Hamas disarmament.
US President Donald Trump has issued a stern warning to Vladimir Putin, accusing him of "playing with fire" amid stalled peace talks and escalating attacks on Ukraine. Trump hinted at potential severe consequences for Russia if it weren't for his past actions.
The Islamic State (IS) claimed its first attack against Syria's new government forces since Bashar al-Assad's ousting, planting an explosive device targeting a military vehicle in Sweida province. This incident, confirmed by the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, marks a shift from IS's primary focus on Kurdish-led forces.
A US Marine, Sgt Maj Jody Armentrout, heroically subdued a disruptive passenger attempting to open an emergency exit on an All Nippon Airways flight from Japan to Texas. Armentrout's quick action, along with assistance from another passenger, led to the man's restraint and the flight's diversion to Seattle. Another passenger was removed for damaging a bathroom door.
Harvard University is seeking a summary judgment to unfreeze $2.5 billion in federal research funding, arguing the Trump administration's freeze is unlawful and politically motivated. The university claims the suspension jeopardizes critical research projects, including those related to national security and public health.
US defence secretary Pete Hegseth cautioned that China is actively preparing to use military force to expand its influence in the Indo-Pacific region, posing a real and imminent threat. He highlighted concerns about a potential invasion of Taiwan by 2027 and China's growing presence in Latin America, urging allies to increase defence spending and be wary of Chinese economic entanglements.
Kathmandu marked International Everest Day with climbers and guides. The event celebrated Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay's historic climb. Nepal recognizes the mountaineering community's contribution. Hundreds of foreign climbers visit Nepal annually. They are assisted by local guides. The end of May marks the end of the climbing season. Kami Rita Sherpa recently scaled Everest for a record 31st time.