QUICKREADS

Google will seek to avoid ad tech spinoff in antitrust case
Google is urging a judge to avoid breaking up its advertising tech business in a hearing aimed at restoring competition in online ad sales. The DOJ advocates for the sale of Google Ad Manager to address antitrust concerns. Judge Brinkema previously ruled that Google's practices harmed competition and publishers, intensifying scrutiny on the company's ad operations.

Friedrich Merz becomes Germany's new Chancellor
Friedrich Merz clinched Germany's chancellorship after a second parliamentary vote, following an initial unsuccessful attempt. The leadership transition marks a significant moment in German political landscape.

Trump defends his AI-Generated Pope photo amid massive backlash, claims ‘I had nothing to do with it’
Trump defended an AI-generated photo of himself as Pope, claiming no involvement. Despite backlash from Catholics and political figures, he dismissed criticism as a joke, saying "you have to have a little fun" while the Vatican prepares for a papal conclave.

After Ukraine deal, US turns its critical minerals gaze to Africa: Andy Home
The U.S. is engaging in critical metals negotiations with the Democratic Republic of Congo in response to escalating conflict with Rwandan-backed M23 rebels. A potential peace deal could lead to bilateral minerals agreements, particularly concerning valuable resources in North and South Kivu. The situation remains complex, with various armed groups affecting mining operations and supply chains.

Why is GTA 6 delayed? Rockstar insider spills details as trailer 2 drops
Rockstar Games released GTA 6's second trailer, revealing characters Jason and Lucia. The game is delayed to May 2026, reportedly due to extensive online mode preparation, with developers focusing on seamless multiplayer infrastructure and avoiding launch issues.

Massive data breach: 19 billion passwords leaked—Here's how to protect yours
Massive data breach exposes 19 billion passwords, enabling potential cyberattacks. Experts urge immediate action: change passwords, use password managers, activate multi-factor authentication, and monitor accounts for suspicious activities.
Pakistan to increase defence spending by 18 per cent in upcoming budget: Report
Pakistan's coalition government has approved an 18% increase in defense spending to over Rs 2.5 trillion for the upcoming budget amid rising tensions with India following a deadly terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir. The budget, to be unveiled next month, reflects a consensus between the ruling parties to address security threats.

‘Either we live or no one will…’: Pakistan defence minister issues doomsday warning
Pakistan's defence minister warns of potential nuclear conflict, claiming survival is at stake. Tensions escalate after the Pahalgam terror attack, with Islamabad accusing India of threatening its existence and drawing parallels to Gaza conflict.

REAL ID deadline: 5 states that don't have to comply by May 7
Five states can use Enhanced Driver's Licenses instead of REAL ID for domestic flights after May 7. Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, and Vermont residents have alternative federal identification meeting travel requirements.

'Kamala Harris, please go away': Trump loyalists criticize Ex-VP's Met Gala debut
Kamala Harris faced harsh criticism from Trump supporters after attending the Met Gala 2025, wearing a custom off-white gown. Critics mocked her appearance, dress, and political persona, calling her "out of touch" and urging her to "go away."

Nepal MP claims Pak army delegation in Kathmandu amid standoff with India post Pahalgam attack
An 11-member delegation from the Pakistani Army is in Kathmandu amid rising tensions between India and Pakistan following a recent terror attack in Pahalgam. Nepali MP Amresh Kumar Singh criticized the timing of the visit, highlighting that a Nepali citizen was killed in the attack. Meanwhile, the UN Security Council questioned Pakistan?s narrative regarding the incident.

EU and UK to hold annual summits, draft statement shows
The EU and UK will hold annual summits to review their bilateral relationship, according to a draft statement for a May 19 summit in London. The agreement emphasizes commitment to the Withdrawal Agreement, support for Ukraine, cooperation on irregular migration, and the importance of transatlantic collaboration on global challenges.

Prince Harry's lawyers back in court against Daily Mail publisher
Prince Harry is suing Associated Newspapers, publisher of the Daily Mail, alongside other high-profile figures for alleged unlawful behavior, including privacy breaches over the past 30 years. This legal move follows Harry's recent emotional interview after losing a case regarding his security arrangements, where he revealed a rift with his father, King Charles.
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.