Dalai Lama asserts ‘sole authority’ to decide successor ahead of 90th birthday

Donald Trump has softened his stance on meeting Vladimir Putin without Volodymyr Zelenskyy, as Putin expressed hope for a summit next week amid impending U.S. sanctions on Russia. While the White House is exploring meeting details, the likelihood of a Zelenskyy-Putin meeting remains uncertain, raising concerns of Ukraine being excluded from negotiations. Want More Context? 🔎

A gunman in northeastern Pennsylvania shot and killed his neighbor, Laurie Wasko, before ambushing responding state troopers, injuring two. The suspect, Carmine Faino, was later shot dead by law enforcement after he posed a continued threat; the injured troopers and an EMT are in stable condition, with one officer credited for applying a tourniquet to his partner. Want More Context? 🔎

HRW Report on Israeli Attacks in GazaHuman Rights Watch reported that Israel has used US-made bombs to attack UN-run schools in Gaza, resulting in at least 49 civilian deaths, predominantly women and children. The organization urged a halt to arms transfers to Israel, citing violations of international law and the extensive destruction of educational facilities amidst an ongoing military campaign that has killed over 61,100 people in Gaza since October 2023. Want More Context? 🔎

Disney and Lucasfilm have settled a lawsuit with Gina Carano, who alleged wrongful termination from "The Mandalorian" for her right-wing social media posts. The settlement's terms are unclear, but both parties expressed a desire to move forward, with Carano thanking Elon Musk for funding her legal battle. Want More Context? 🔎

Industry Minister Mélanie Joly confirmed the CRTC's wholesale framework for high-speed Internet, allowing major telecoms like Telus to resell fibre optics, enhancing competition and potentially lowering costs for consumers. However, companies like Bell, Rogers, and Cogeco oppose the decision, fearing it will reduce investment, jobs, and innovation in the telecommunications sector. Want More Context? 🔎

Rare earth mining in rebel-controlled areas of Myanmar is contaminating Thai waterways, notably the Mekong River, with toxic heavy metals like arsenic and lead, prompting local protests and health concerns. Recent studies indicate that 60-70% of pollution in the Kok River originates from these mining activities, exacerbating environmental damage and threatening local agriculture. Want More Context? 🔎