Australia / New Zealand: mixed feelings as China’s PM visits
A visit to New Zealand and Australia by China's PM Li Qiang, starting on 13 June, will be marked by regional security concerns overshadowing trade ties. China is Australia's largest trading partner, particularly for iron ore, while New Zealand's significant trade involves milk and agriculture. NZ prime minister Christopher Luxon views the visit as an opportunity for business deals, but acknowledges the need to address differences, especially since his country has taken a tougher stance on China in recent months due to security concerns. In Australia, Li will visit Adelaide, engaging in ‘panda diplomacy‘ and meeting wine exporters to ease political tensions which had previously led to a suspension in their exports. A recent poll shows significant public mistrust in Australia towards China, with many viewing Beijing as a security threat. Despite these concerns, prime minister Anthony Albanese believes Li's visit shows that ties had stabilised, even as the two nations compete for influence in the Pacific and defence force encounters are tense.
Brazil: aftermath of catastrophic floods
Carla Rambo, middle-aged and exhausted, is trying to clear her damaged store in Porto Alegre, which was inundated for weeks after the catastrophic floods in early May. The floodwaters, carrying dangerous bacteria, have led to eight deaths and nearly 2,000 suspected cases of leptospirosis. Her business is one of 45,000 affected, with damages estimated at $91 million. A nearby shop owner recounted staying in her premises without electricity, fearing looters - with good reason, as there was widespread looting and damage. The disaster is considered the worst-ever climate event in the region, with reconstruction costs potentially reaching $4 billion. More than 90% of Rio Grande do Sul’s municipalities were affected; 600,000 people were displaced, with 50,000 still in shelters. Recovery is slow, hindered by ongoing rains and infrastructure issues. President Lula has promised $10 billion for recovery, with an additional $1 billion from a national development bank.
USA: first a president is convicted, now a president’s son
Joe Biden’s son Hunter has been found guilty on three federal gun charges - the first time a sitting president's son has been criminally convicted. The charges stem from his lying about his drug use on a federal form when purchasing a handgun in 2018. He kept it for only eleven days, but then it was discarded by his then-girlfriend in a rubbish bin outside a shop - triggering the investigation leading to his conviction. Although he pleaded not guilty, claiming he was in recovery from addiction at the time, a Delaware jury convicted him after three hours of deliberation. After the verdict, Hunter embraced his legal team and family, expressing disappointment but gratitude for their support. The judge has not yet set a sentencing date; he could face a prison sentence, but probably not the maximum of 25 years.
Miracles and the power of prayer
Rebecca St James has discussed the profound impact of prayer and trusting in God through the lens of her family’s experiences. The Smallbone family, originally from Australia, faced significant challenges after relocating to the United States. Despite severe financial difficulties, their unwavering faith and persistent prayers led to numerous miracles, including unexpected provisions and career successes. St James' story, portrayed in the film 'Unsung Hero, ' underscores the power of relying on God during adversity. She also reflects on her journey away from the music industry, which allowed her to focus on her family and deepen her Christian faith. This period of rest and renewal has reinforced her belief in the importance of prioritising spiritual and familial values over material success. Through her testimony, she encourages others to trust in God’s plan, emphasising that He works through our prayers and faith even when circumstances seem insurmountable.
Hopeless addict given second chance at life
Josh's journey from addiction to redemption is a testament to the power of Christian faith and forgiveness. Deeply addicted to heroin and meth, he resorted to drug trafficking and crime to sustain his habit, leading to a downward spiral that left him homeless and estranged from his family. In a moment of despair, handcuffed in a patrol car, he prayed for forgiveness and a chance to reconcile with his loved ones. Miraculously, his withdrawal symptoms were manageable, and he received support from his wife and community. Now clean, Josh credits God for his second chance and strives to rebuild his life.
Queen moved during D-Day memorial event
Queen Camilla was visibly moved during the 80th anniversary of D-Day commemorations in Portsmouth, where she joined King Charles and Prince William. The event was deeply emotional, particularly when Navy veteran Eric Bateman shared his harrowing experiences from Utah Beach. Both Camilla and Charles were seen fighting back tears as they listened to the veterans' stories. The King praised the courage and sacrifice of the wartime generation, while Prince William honoured the bravery of those who participated in D-Day and their enduring legacy.
Bishops tell Sunak and Starmer, 'Taxes are a blessing'
Over twenty Christian leaders, including former Archbishop of Canterbury Rowan Williams, have urged UK political leaders to view taxes as a societal benefit rather than a burden. In an open letter organised by the JustMoney Movement, they called on Rishi Sunak, Keir Starmer, and Ed Davey to promote fairer taxation, emphasising its role in funding public services and addressing inequality. They argue that the wealthiest should contribute more equitably, aligning with biblical principles of justice and community responsibility.
London hospitals hit by Russian ransomware attack
A recent ransomware attack by the Russian cybercriminal group Qilin has significantly impacted pathology services at several major London hospitals. The attack disrupted NHS services, leading to the cancellation or redirection of procedures and operations. Ciaran Martin, former chief executive of the National Cyber Security Centre, explained that these criminals, seeking financial gain, operate freely from within Russia and have a history of targeting various organisations globally. This attack, involving the shutdown of systems rather than data theft, has severely affected healthcare operations, reflecting the serious nature of such ransomware incidents.
Another killing on London underground
A young man in his 20s was tragically stabbed to death outside a London Underground station near Edgware Road. The incident, on 5 June, began with a fight during which a gunshot was also reportedly heard. Despite efforts by police officers and paramedics to revive him, the victim died at the scene. Three men have been arrested in connection with the incident and remain in custody. Police are conducting urgent inquiries and have established multiple crime scenes.
Madeleine suspect gives lawyer fist bump
Christian Brueckner, a German national with a history of criminal offences, including child sexual abuse, emerged as a key suspect in the disappearance of Madeleine McCann in Portugal in 2007. His presence in the area at the time and his criminal record, particularly related to crimes involving children, had led investigators to focus on him. Despite extensive investigations and public interest, conclusive evidence linking him directly to McCann's disappearance remains elusive. However, authorities continue to pursue leads diligently. The case highlights the complexities and challenges of high-profile missing persons cases. While Brueckner's notoriety as a suspect generates speculation, the search for truth and justice persists as the priority for resolving such cases and providing closure to the families involved. He is reported to have fist bumped his lawyer as he arrived in court earlier this week.