The Trump administration is reportedly preparing to withdraw substantial federal funding from California, potentially starting Friday. Federal departments have been instructed to identify grants for withholding, with research grants possibly being terminated. This action follows Trump's criticism of California's Democratic leadership and disagreements over policy, raising concerns about the state's education sector and overall funding stability.
Related news
Burundi's parliamentary elections are underway, shadowed by concerns over fairness. The ruling CNDD-FDD party is heavily favored after the main opposition, CNL, faced significant obstacles, including the suspension and barring of its leader, Agathon Rwasa. Amidst a deep socio-economic crisis marked by shortages and high inflation, other candidates report harassment.
Poles are set to vote on Sunday in a knife-edge presidential election with major implications for the country's role in Europe and for abortion and LGBTQ rights. Malgorzata Wojciechowska, a tour guide and teacher in her fifties, said Polish women "unfortunately do not have the same rights as our European friends".
In a tragic turn of events, Rodney Shippy killed his son, daughter, and family dog before committing suicide in their Oklahoma home. The grim discovery unfolded during a search for his missing daughter, Alyssa. Financial struggles and the previous suicide of his wife, along with other family tragedies, preceded this devastating incident, leaving the community in shock and mourning.
UNRWA chief Philippe Lazzarini criticized the new US-backed aid distribution model in Gaza, deeming it a wasteful distraction from alleged atrocities. Speaking in Japan, Lazzarini asserted the UN's readiness to deliver aid effectively, warning of imminent famine. Chaotic scenes erupted at a new aid center in Rafah, highlighting the desperation amid severe shortages.
A shocking incident unfolded at the Union Gospel Mission Salem of Men's Mission in Oregon, where at least 11 individuals were stabbed on Sunday night. Police responded to the scene at approximately 7:15 pm, apprehending a male suspect.
Following a severe heatwave, Pakistan has been struck by intense storms, resulting in at least 32 fatalities and over 150 injuries in the past week. Northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa experienced five deaths on Thursday due to heavy rains and strong winds, with continued stormy weather expected in northern and central regions.
President Trump issued a series of pardons, including rapper NBA YoungBoy, former Connecticut Governor John Rowland, and others. Alice Marie Johnson, Trump's pardon czar, influenced the decisions. Pardons were granted to individuals ranging from political figures convicted of corruption to those with gun-related charges, showcasing Trump's broad use of executive clemency.
In Tamaulipas, Mexico, authorities discovered five bodies during the search for the missing band Fugitivo, who disappeared after performing at a bar in Reynosa. Relatives reported receiving ransom demands following their disappearance. The band members, aged 20 to 40, were last seen on Sunday, and the area is known for criminal activity, including drug trafficking and extortion.
China rebuked US Secretary of State Marco Rubio for his Tiananmen Square crackdown anniversary remarks, calling them a distortion and interference. Lin Jian stated China lodged a protest with the US. Security tightened in Beijing, Hong Kong, while activist Chow Hang-tung protested with a hunger strike. Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te contrasted democracy with authoritarianism.
In 2025, millions of Muslims will gather in Mecca for Hajj, beginning June 4th. This pilgrimage, a central pillar of Islam, involves rituals symbolizing faith, unity, and sacrifice. Saudi authorities are implementing safety measures due to expected record turnout and high temperatures, including cooling stations and health services. Pilgrims will utilize technology like the Hajj Smart App for assistance.