North Korea: strong criticism of proposed new US missile defence system
North Korea has strongly condemned the US plan to develop a futuristic ‘Golden Dome’ missile defence system, warning it could trigger a nuclear arms race in space. The system, promoted by Donald Trump to counter next-generation threats such as hypersonic and cruise missiles, is viewed by Pyongyang as a provocation that would undermine its nuclear deterrent. North Korea’s foreign ministry described the plan as arrogant and dangerous, while China has called it a threat to global stability, saying the USA is ‘obsessed’ with its own security. Analysts note the system could compel North Korea to advance its missile capabilities. While many experts agree that US defence infrastructure needs updating, critics point to the potential geopolitical fallout and high costs - estimated at up to $500 billion long-term. Strategic tensions over space militarisation continue to grow as nations grapple with balancing national defence and global security.
Peru: farmer’s lawsuit against polluting German firm
A German court has dismissed a lawsuit by Peruvian farmer Saul Luciano Lliuya against energy giant RWE, rejecting his claim for damages over flood risks in his hometown linked to climate change. Lliuya argued that RWE’s historic carbon emissions contributed to the melting of Andean glaciers threatening his town of Huaraz. Though the court found no immediate threat to his property, it acknowledged that major emitters may bear proportional costs for preventative climate measures. This ruling, while unfavourable to Lliuya, is seen as a landmark in climate litigation, particularly as it came from a plaintiff in the global south against a global north corporation. The court also said that RWE should have foreseen the effects of its emissions. Although RWE argues that climate change cannot be blamed on a single emitter, legal observers view the case as a potential turning point for holding polluters accountable globally.
USA: federal court blocks Trump’s tariffs
A federal court has blocked Donald Trump’s broad use of tariffs, ruling that the Constitution grants Congress - not the president - authority to regulate foreign commerce. The decision challenges Trump's use of the 1977 International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) to impose sweeping import taxes, a cornerstone of his ‘America First’ agenda. Two lawsuits, one by small businesses and another by a coalition of US states, sparked the ruling. The court also blocked tariffs on China, Mexico, and Canada, imposed under immigration and drug control claims. However, tariffs on specific goods like steel and cars were not addressed. Markets responded positively, with global stocks rising and the dollar strengthening. If the ruling is upheld, affected businesses may receive tariff refunds with interest. Legal experts suggest the decision may constrain executive power over trade, sending a strong constitutional message. The White House has vowed to appeal, calling the ruling a judicial overreach. In another development, the Trump administration has asked the supreme court to overturn a judge’s ban on deporting migrants without giving them a chance to seek legal relief: see Breaking news: the ban on tariffs has been temporarily paused by an appeal court.
China: five killed in massive chemical explosion
At least five people were killed and six remain missing after a powerful explosion rocked the Shandong Youdao Chemical plant in Gaomi, eastern China. Occurring just before noon, the blast sent a massive plume of grey and orange smoke into the sky, shattered nearby windows, and triggered a major rescue operation. Nineteen others sustained minor injuries. Emergency teams dispatched 55 vehicles and over 230 personnel to the scene, while the ministry of emergency management sent reinforcements. Social media videos showed smoke blanketing the area, with some structures visibly damaged. Witnesses from nearby businesses reported hearing a loud bang and experiencing a strong gust of wind, which caused structural damage and panic. The cause of the explosion has not been released. Shandong Youdao Chemical, founded in 2019 and employing over 300 people, produces pesticides and pharmaceutical chemicals. The tragedy, reminiscent of the deadly 2015 Tianjin warehouse explosions which killed over 100 people, has revived concerns over industrial safety in China.
USA: Trump cracks down on international student visas
Donald Trump’s administration has ordered US embassies to halt new student visa appointments as it prepares to expand social media vetting of international applicants. The move is part of a broader crackdown on US universities, which Trump accuses of harbouring left-wing and antisemitic sentiment amid pro-Palestinian campus protests. Embassies are directed to cancel unscheduled interviews, with warnings of ‘significant implications’ for visa processing. Critics say this threatens the rights and futures of international students, who often pay higher fees and significantly fund the universities. The administration has frozen millions in university funding, revoked thousands of visas, and moved to deport foreign students - many actions now under legal challenge. Harvard University, a prime target, recently had its ability to host international students suspended, though a federal judge blocked the decision: for a view on how much its international students contribute, see Critics argue the social media screening policy infringes on free speech, while Trump insists it protects national security and combats extremism.
Alpha course record numbers
In 2024, Alpha International experienced its most fruitful year since launching in 1977, with over two million people worldwide participating in Alpha courses. The globally recognised programme, known for its welcoming small-group format and open discussions about faith, was delivered through more than 81,000 courses across 146 countries, supported by 43,000 churches and organisations. A significant milestone was the launch of the Alpha Youth Series in November, which quickly drew over 250,000 young participants across 53 nations. Remarkably, one-third of all attendees were under 25, signalling a growing hunger for spiritual truth among younger generations. The strongest regional growth occurred in Africa, where participation surged by 47%. CEO Miles Toulmin attributes Alpha’s success to localised video content which allows people to hear the Gospel in their own language and context. With increasing numbers of young people seeking answers to issues like loneliness and mental health, Alpha continues to offer a space for spiritual encounter and gospel transformation in this season of Quiet Revival. See
Joe Rogan is 'attending church' consistently
Joe Rogan, the world’s most listened-to podcaster, is regularly attending church and exploring Christianity with increasing openness, according to Canadian apologist Wes Huff. Huff, who appeared on Rogan’s podcast in January for an in-depth discussion on Christianity and Scripture, confirmed ongoing communication and Rogan’s consistent church attendance. Known for probing life’s deepest questions, Rogan has recently expressed scepticism about atheistic explanations for the universe and said he finds the resurrection of Jesus more believable than the Big Bang theory. He has remarked, 'Jesus makes more sense’, expressing personal resonance with the idea of a Creator and Redeemer. His shift reflects a wider resurgence of spiritual hunger, particularly among young people. Huff noted that teenagers are increasingly requesting Bibles, saying, 'All my friends are reading this thing’. A Gallup report confirms that the long-term decline in US religiosity has now stabilised. Though Rogan has not made a public profession of faith, his journey signals a significant cultural moment as high-profile voices express openness to Jesus and the Gospel message.
Starmer hails new UK-EU deal, but critics warn of 'capitulation'
Keir Starmer has announced a wide-ranging new UK-EU agreement covering trade, defence, youth mobility, and travel arrangements. Touted as part of a 'hat-trick' of international trade achievements alongside deals with the US and India, the agreement seeks to ease post-Brexit disruptions. Key measures include continued EU fishing access to UK waters until 2038, reduced border checks on food exports, and a new UK-EU defence and security pact. British holidaymakers will also benefit from increased access to e-gates and streamlined pet passport systems. Starmer said that this signals Britain is 'back on the world stage', with 'unprecedented access' to EU markets for a non-member state. However, the deal has been sharply criticised by Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch, who labelled it a 'total capitulation', claiming it compromises UK sovereignty. While welcomed by many as pragmatic progress, the deal’s success will ultimately hinge on how it balances trade benefits with national self-determination. See
Inflation at 3.5% as Bank of England debates pace of rate cuts
UK inflation surged to 3.5% in April, surprising economists and intensifying concerns over the Bank of England’s strategy on interest rates. The rise follows months of falling inflation and comes amid steep household bill increases, particularly in energy and broadband costs. Huw Pill, the Bank’s chief economist, had warned just a day earlier that rate cuts were being implemented too quickly, describing the return to stability as 'stuttering'. Pill voted against this month’s rate cut, calling for a pause and slower reductions, while the Bank’s monetary policy committee remained split. Some members wanted a deeper cut, while others, including Pill, argued for restraint due to stubborn underlying inflation and continued wage growth. Traders now expect fewer rate cuts in 2025 than previously hoped, disappointing mortgage holders and borrowers. With over 2,000 UK companies going bust in April - the highest since last summer - concerns are growing over financial pressures on households and businesses. The debate now centres on whether the Bank can tame inflation without stalling economic recovery or deepening insolvency risks.
Starmer announces U-turn on winter fuel payment cuts
Keir Starmer has announced a policy reversal on winter fuel payment cuts, following widespread criticism and internal party dissent. Over 10 million pensioners lost the payment (worth £200 to £300 a year) in 2024 after Labour started to means-test it. The Government originally limited eligibility to those receiving pension credit or income-related benefits, saving an estimated £1.4 billion. However, backlash from charities, unions, and local Labour members, along with poor local election results, prompted a reassessment. In a surprise announcement during Prime Minister’s Questions, Starmer confirmed changes would be introduced in the autumn budget to allow more pensioners to qualify. Details remain unclear, including the revised eligibility threshold or whether changes will apply this winter. Former PM Gordon Brown supported the move, saying 'no pensioner should be forced into poverty.' Critics welcomed the U-turn but called for urgent clarity. With cost-of-living pressures and energy bills rising, many fear delays could leave elderly citizens vulnerable. Age UK urged ministers to ensure the revised policy protects those on low and modest incomes.