Russian President Vladimir Putin seeks firm concessions from the West to end the Ukraine war, demanding a halt to NATO's eastward expansion and Ukraine's neutrality. Amidst stalled negotiations and intensified military operations, Putin insists on controlling eastern regions.
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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.
In Cairo, Iranian, Egyptian, and UN leaders convened to address concerns over Iran's escalating uranium enrichment, as highlighted in a recent IAEA report. The report indicated Iran's increasing stockpile of uranium enriched to near weapons-grade levels, raising serious concerns. Discussions aimed to find a diplomatic solution, with Iran asserting its cooperation and denying intentions to develop nuclear weapons.
Jimmy Sham, a prominent pro-democracy figure, is now free after spending four years in jail. He was arrested under national security law. Sham played a key role in 2019 protests. He was among 47 activists arrested for primary election involvement. Sham continued to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights while incarcerated. He acknowledges self-censorship and uncertainty about his future freedom.
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.
European Commission plans to boost EU's influence in Black Sea. This counters Russia's actions through collaboration with Ukraine, Moldova, and others. A maritime security hub will enhance monitoring and information sharing. The EU aims to improve regional transport infrastructure. Discussions with member states and Black Sea countries will follow. China's growing presence adds complexity to the region.
US envoy Thomas Barrack visited Syria. This marks the first official visit by a high-ranking US official since 2012. Barrack, also the US ambassador to Turkiye, met with the Syrian foreign minister. The US flag was hoisted at the envoy's residence in Damascus. This follows a meeting between US President Trump and Syrian leader Ahmad al-Sharaa in Riyadh.
The race to become Africa's next "super banker" ends on Thursday, with five candidates, including one woman, vying to succeed Nigeria's Akinwumi Adesina as head of the African Development Bank in a contest that appears too close to call. In 2015 it took six rounds of voting to elect Adesina as president of the AfDB, which was founded in 1964 and now has 81 members, including 54 African nations.
President Zelenskyy affirmed Ukraine's successful drone attack on Russia, warning of continued strikes unless Moscow ceases its offensive. Speaking after US-brokered peace talks in Istanbul, he highlighted the drone strike as a strategic operation. Both sides agreed to exchange wounded prisoners and discussed a potential meeting between Zelenskyy and Putin, while Russia rejected Ukraine's ceasefire proposal.