Global News Digest

World

Trump Plan to Pause Anti-Weaponization Fund Faces GOP Skepticism
Bloomberg

Trump Plan to Pause Anti-Weaponization Fund Faces GOP Skepticism

Trump announced plans to relax refrigerant regulations to lower consumer costs, contradicting the title’s claim about halting anti-weaponization funding.

Reuters

US to slash the number of embassies in Africa that process visas, AP reports

The US plans to cut the number of African embassies processing visas, AP reports. This reduction aims to streamline operations but may increase wait times for applicants seeking entry to the US.

Reuters

Lawyers, others plead not guilty to massive US insider trading scheme

Lawyers and others pleaded not guilty to a massive US insider trading conspiracy, according to Reuters.

Reuters

Venezuela's oil exports rose to 1.25 million bpd in May, shipping data shows

Venezuela’s crude oil exports surged to 1.25 million barrels per day in May, according to shipping data cited by Reuters.

OpenAI let ChatGPT aid and abet mass shooters, Florida lawsuit claims
BBC News

OpenAI let ChatGPT aid and abet mass shooters, Florida lawsuit claims

Florida sues OpenAI, alleging ChatGPT aided violence and endangered youth. The state seeks to hold CEO Sam Altman accountable for prioritizing profit over public safety.

AI giant Anthropic says it plans to list on US stock market
BBC News

AI giant Anthropic says it plans to list on US stock market

Anthropic plans to list on the US stock market this year, testing AI sector valuations. This move intensifies competition with rival OpenAI, which is also considering an IPO.

Reuters

Trump says he spoke to Lebanon's Hezbollah through intermediaries

Trump claims he communicated with Lebanon’s Hezbollah through intermediaries.

Williams, 44, to return to action in Queen's doubles
BBC News

Williams, 44, to return to action in Queen's doubles

Serena Williams ends her four-year hiatus, returning to compete in doubles at Queen’s Club with Victoria Mboko. The 44-year-old legend confirmed the comeback via social media, marking her first competitive match since 2022.

The US Has About An 18 Month AI Lead On China Says Allen
Bloomberg

The US Has About An 18 Month AI Lead On China Says Allen

Allen states the US holds an 18-month AI lead over China. This advantage is expected to persist, highlighting the US's current dominance in the competitive artificial intelligence landscape.

White House Reviews SEC, CFTC Bid to Revisit Swaps Reporting
Bloomberg

White House Reviews SEC, CFTC Bid to Revisit Swaps Reporting

The White House reviews the SEC and CFTC’s bid to revise swaps reporting protocols. Separately, the SEC unveiled new insider trading guidelines targeting non-US firm executives.

Key messages between Mandelson and ministers so far
BBC News

Key messages between Mandelson and ministers so far

Leaked emails reveal Lord Mandelson’s harsh criticism of Keir Starmer’s leadership, describing Downing Street as fragmented and directionless.

Reuters

Zelenskiy says Ukrainian military can hit Russian logistics throughout occupied areas

Zelensky claims Ukrainian forces can strike Russian logistics across all occupied territories. This assertion highlights Kyiv's ongoing efforts to disrupt Moscow's supply lines throughout the conflict.

Iran Is Trying To 'Buy For Time' Against The US Says Stulberg
Bloomberg

Iran Is Trying To 'Buy For Time' Against The US Says Stulberg

Stulberg argues Iran is employing a strategy to "buy time" against the US. This suggests Tehran aims to delay confrontation while strengthening its position.

Reuters

Two explosions hit cargo vessel in Gulf off Iraq, officials say

Two explosions struck a cargo vessel in Gulf waters off Iraq, officials reported.

Italians bemused by Milan bull mosaic restoration
BBC News

Italians bemused by Milan bull mosaic restoration

Milan residents are amused by a bull mosaic restoration that appears to have "castrated" the statue, sparking jokes despite officials claiming the genitals remain hidden under protective cover.

Reuters

Trump says talks with Iran continue

President Trump confirms ongoing diplomatic talks with Iran, stating communication channels remain open despite the complex geopolitical landscape.

Reuters

US crude exports hit record high in May as Iran war tightens global oil supplies

US crude exports hit a record high in May, driven by supply constraints from the ongoing Iran conflict.

Mandelson Files Lay Bare Rifts Shaping Battle to Replace Starmer
Bloomberg

Mandelson Files Lay Bare Rifts Shaping Battle to Replace Starmer

Mandelson’s archives expose deep divisions shaping the contest to succeed Keir Starmer.

Reuters

Barry Diller's People bids for MGM Resorts, values casino operator at $18 billion

Barry Diller’s People has launched a takeover bid for MGM Resorts, valuing the casino operator at $18 billion.

Reuters

Mexico's Sheinbaum escalates rhetoric against U.S., blames far-right 'offensive'

Mexican President Sheinbaum escalates rhetoric against the U.S., blaming far-right forces for heightened tensions.