QUICKREADS

‘What did I miss?’: Ex-US President Barack Obama shares lists of his favourite books, films, music of 2022
Taking to Twitter, ex-US President Barack Obama first shared a list of his favourite books. “I always look forward to sharing my list of favorite books, movies, and music with all of you,” the first of his three tweets read.

Fentanyl Crisis Provided Opening for U.S.-China Trade Talks
Beijing's outreach to Washington regarding fentanyl has led to upcoming trade talks in Switzerland, marking a potential thaw in U.S.-China relations. Both nations are seeking to ease tensions after extensive tariffs. The discussions aim to address drug trafficking concerns and explore new trade agreements, with officials hopeful for progress in reducing trade barriers.

The Britain-India trade deal is a sign of things to come
Sir Keir Starmer praised a new trade deal between Britain and India as the UK's most significant since Brexit. The agreement includes substantial tariff reductions, particularly benefiting whisky and car exports. It aims to boost bilateral trade by £25.5bn over 15 years, although restrictions on services and immigration remain contentious. This deal may influence future global trade negotiations.

Singapore urges citizens to avoid non-essential travel to Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan in fresh advisory
Singapore's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a travel advisory urging citizens to defer non-essential travel to Jammu & Kashmir and Pakistan due to heightened security tensions following an April 22 terror attack. Singaporeans are advised to remain vigilant, avoid large gatherings, and register with the MFA for safety updates and assistance.

Who is Cardinal Becciu? Why isn't he participating in conclave to elect new pope?
Cardinal Angelo Becciu, who was once a leading papal candidate, has withdrawn from the upcoming conclave following letters from Pope Francis advising against his participation due to corruption allegations. Becciu, facing legal battles over financial mismanagement linked to a controversial Vatican investment, maintains his innocence amid claims of a manipulated trial. His appeal hearing is scheduled for September.

Pakistan airspace closed for all commercial flights at Lahore, Islamabad airports after India's Operation Sindoor
Pakistan closed airspace at Lahore and Islamabad airports following India's Operation Sindoor, which targeted terror spots in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir in response to a previous terrorist attack killing 26 people.

500 billionaires in 4 states while 3 have none- America's shocking wealth divide revealed
Four states (California, New York, Florida, Texas) host 528 of America's 902 billionaires, valued at $2 trillion. Ten states have one billionaire, while Alaska, Delaware, and West Virginia have none, highlighting dramatic wealth concentration.

‘Dave Portnoy ruined my life’: Temple student Mohammed Khan speaks out on antisemitism row and Auschwitz 'trip'
Temple student Mohammed Khan claims Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy ruined his life after an antisemitic incident at a pub. He faces interim suspension from Temple University and potential expulsion, with an Auschwitz learning trip offer now revoked.

Santa Ana stabbing: 3 high school students injured in Orange County
Three high school students were stabbed near Santa Ana High School in Orange County, California, on Wednesday. No arrests have been made yet, and details remain limited as the investigation continues.

Why 'pro-vaccine’ Janette Nesheiwat was replaced last minute as surgeon general nominee
White House replaces Dr. Janette Nesheiwat with Dr. Casey Means as Surgeon General nominee after far-right activist Laura Loomer criticized Nesheiwat's pro-vaccine stance and challenged her medical background. Trump praised Means as an exceptional candidate with strong health credentials.

U.S. judge to consider ordering Trump to return Venezuelans from El Salvador
A U.S. judge will hear arguments regarding the return of 137 Venezuelan migrants deported to El Salvador under Trump's administration, despite a judge's order halting such deportations. The ACLU argues the U.S. remains responsible for their incarceration abroad. This case highlights ongoing tensions between the executive and judicial branches over immigration policies and deportation practices.

‘I never will’: Jerome Powell's powerful message to Donald Trump as Fed holds rate cut
Fed Chair Jerome Powell firmly stated he never seeks presidential meetings, emphasizing the Fed's independence amid Trump's rate-cut demands. The central bank unanimously held interest rates steady, noting economic uncertainties and potential risks from trade policies.

Trump signals China initiated planned trade meeting
President Trump stated he would not reduce U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods ahead of upcoming trade talks, which he suggested China initiated. The planned discussions aim to de-escalate tensions amid a trade war that has significantly raised import duties. Trump's envoy, David Perdue, emphasized his close ties to the president, which may influence negotiations with China.

What does black smoke at the Vatican mean? Papal conclave day 1 ends without a new pope
Cardinals failed to elect a new pope during the first day of conclave, signaled by black smoke emerging from the Sistine Chapel at 21:00 local time. Voting will continue tomorrow following Pope Francis's recent death.

Ex-model takes the stand in Harvey Weinstein's retrial. It's the first time she has testified
Kaja Sokola, a former model, testified against Harvey Weinstein in his retrial for sexual assault. Prosecutors added charges based on her allegations after his 2020 conviction was overturned. Sokola claims Weinstein sexually assaulted her in 2006 and had a history of harassment. Weinstein, who denies all charges, faces scrutiny as more accusers come forward.
Did Trump direct intel agencies to spy on Greenland amid annexation plans? Worried Denmark to summon US envoy
US intelligence agencies reportedly ordered to increase surveillance on Greenland, seeking support for potential annexation. Denmark plans to summon US envoy over concerns. Trump maintains interest, citing strategic importance and rare mineral access.