U.S. Army Plans Massive Increase in Its Use of Drones

The U.S. Army plans a major overhaul, equipping each combat division with approximately 1,000 drones, a response to lessons from the Ukraine war. This initiative, costing $36 billion over five years, aims to enhance capabilities while cutting outdated systems. The Army seeks to improve battlefield communication and invest in electronic warfare, anticipating a significant shift towards unmanned aerial systems in warfare.

No phone signals, jammers, lockdown: Vatican's world to seal for Conclave to elect pope

Vatican prepares for papal conclave by blocking mobile signals and using jammers. 133 cardinals will gather in the Sistine Chapel, swearing secrecy, to elect Pope Francis's successor through a centuries-old, locked-door voting process.

China's Xi ready to work with EU to expand ties, handle friction

President Xi Jinping stated that China is eager to collaborate with EU leaders to enhance mutual openness and address differences, marking the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties. Amid U.S. trade tensions, Xi emphasized the importance of stable China-EU relations and called for joint efforts to uphold fairness. High-level dialogues and exchanges are planned to strengthen cooperation this year.

Bangladesh court issues new arrest order for detained Hindu leader Chinmoy Das

A Bangladesh court has ordered the arrest of Hindu leader Chinmoy Krishna Das in four additional cases, following his previous arrest related to a murder case. Das, who was detained at Dhaka airport last year for alleged sedition, has faced widespread protests. Security has been heightened at court and jail facilities amid ongoing legal challenges regarding his bail.

Why does Donald Trump want to reopen notorious island prison Alcatraz?

Trump proposes reopening Alcatraz prison to house "violent offenders" and illegal immigrants, citing past national seriousness. The historic San Francisco island facility, now a tourist attraction, was closed in 1963 due to high operating costs. Democrats dismiss the plan as unserious.

Euro zone economic growth slows in April, services near stagnation, PMI shows

The euro zone economy grew at a slower rate in April, with the HCOB Eurozone Composite PMI Output Index falling to 50.4, indicating fragile recovery. The services sector nearly stagnated, and overall demand declined for the 11th month. Employment rose marginally, but manufacturing jobs continued to decline. Inflation pressures eased, suggesting potential interest rate cuts by the European Central Bank.

‘Pakistan bombs its own people’: Islamabad's Lal Masjid cleric Abdul Aziz Ghazi on ‘war’ with India

Controversial Lal Masjid cleric Abdul Aziz Ghazi criticized Pakistan's government, questioning citizens' support in a potential war with India and accusing the state of systemic oppression, violence, and injustice against its own people.

Sri Lanka holds delayed local elections in first test for Dissanayake's government

Polling for Sri Lanka's delayed local council elections commenced on Monday, with over 17.1 million voters eligible to choose 8,287 members across 339 local bodies. This election serves as a crucial test for President Anura Kumara Dissanayake's ruling National People?s Power party following recent political turmoil. Observers note a disorganized opposition, posing minimal challenge to the NPP.

Canada federal polls: Jagmeet Singh replaced as NDP leader after party’s heavy defeat

Jagmeet Singh stepped down as NDP leader after a disastrous federal election, where the party won only seven seats. Don Davies was chosen as interim leader, and the party will prepare for a new leadership race in the coming months.

PwC lays off 1,500 employees, reduces campus hiring across US

PwC is laying off 1,500 employees (2% of US workforce) primarily in audit and tax divisions, reducing campus hiring. The decision affects potential promotions, following similar cuts by other Big Four accounting firms amid changing market conditions.

Who is James Rondeau? Art Institute of Chicago president on leave after alleged misconduct on United flight

Art Institute of Chicago president James Rondeau is on voluntary leave after alleged disruptive behavior on a flight from Chicago to Munich. The incident, possibly involving alcohol and medication, is under internal review, with potential leadership implications for the museum.

PlayStation Plus free games for May 2025 revealed by Sony: See the full lineup

Sony reveals three free PS Plus games for May 2025: ARK: Survival Ascended (PS5 dinosaur survival), Balatro (roguelike deck-builder), and Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun (retro FPS). Available May 6-June 2 for Essential subscribers on PS4 and PS5.

IRS tax refund update: Who's getting their check this week?

IRS expected to process tax refunds for many this week (May 5-11), particularly for those who filed electronically in late April, with direct deposit and error-free returns most likely to receive payments quickly.

Trump vs Harvard: University funding blocked until it meets US government's demands

The US Education Department has halted new federal grants to Harvard University until it meets demands from the Trump administration, which includes changes in leadership and admissions policies. This decision follows a freeze on $2.2 billion in funding, citing concerns over antisemitism and academic standards. Harvard's president has resisted the demands and is pursuing legal action against the funding freeze.

Hegseth Used Multiple Signal Chats For Official Pentagon Business

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth reportedly used the encrypted messaging app Signal for official Pentagon communications, discussing sensitive military operations and unclassified information. His use of personal devices raises concerns about security and record-keeping violations, prompting an investigation by the Pentagon's inspector general. The situation has drawn scrutiny, especially in light of a directive restricting non-governmental app use for official business.

Lavish Bribes and Wooden Potties: A Short History of Conclaves

The upcoming conclave to elect a new pope is expected to be much shorter than the longest in history, which lasted nearly three years due to divisions among cardinals. Modern conclaves, generally lasting two to five days, follow established rules to ensure a swift transition. Current accommodations for cardinals are strained due to Pope Francis's appointments, leading some to stay in nearby buildings.