Negotiate on the budget or we'll bring you down, France's far right tells government

Joe Root achieved a remarkable milestone during Day 4 of the fifth Test at The Oval, scoring his 16th half-century against India in home conditions, equaling Herbie Taylor and trailing only Sir Don Bradman. Additionally, Root became the first player to score 500 or more runs in a Test series against India three times, surpassing legends like Ricky Ponting and Garry Sobers. Want More Context? 🔎

Outgoing National party board member Peter Goodfellow has identified economic shocks and escalating trade wars as significant threats to the party's re-election in 2026. After nearly 20 years of service and a 13-year tenure as party president, Goodfellow retired during the National's 89th annual conference in Christchurch, where he expressed gratitude to party members and recognized his wife, Auckland Deputy Mayor Desley Simpson, for her support. Want More Context? 🔎

On December 5, 2023, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro expressed intentions to declare a Venezuelan province in an oil-rich area disputed with Guyana, which has become one of the world's fastest-growing economies due to offshore oil development. Entrepreneur Selwin Asafa George advocates for equitable resource distribution in Guyana, suggesting a sovereign wealth fund similar to Alaska's to ensure all citizens benefit from the nation's oil windfall. Want More Context? 🔎

Damning allegations about Prince Andrew are detailed in Andrew Lownie's upcoming biography, ‘Entitled: The Rise and Fall of the House of York,’ including inappropriate conversations with Donald Trump and comments from Jeffrey Epstein regarding Andrew's sexual obsessions. The book also highlights Andrew's cruel treatment of royal staff, bizarre behavior at parties, and concerns over potential Russian blackmail related to his connections with Epstein. Want More Context? 🔎

At Camp FI in Florida, Nik Johnson preached the principles of the Financial Independence, Retire Early (FIRE) movement, emphasizing that financial independence benefits loved ones and causes. Inspired by bloggers like Mr. Money Mustache and Vicki Robin, Nik and his wife Adinah achieved financial freedom through frugality, saving $1.6 million, allowing them to focus on experiences rather than material possessions. Want More Context? 🔎

Amid growing pressure on Donald Trump to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, US envoy Steve Witkoff's recent visit offered little optimism as he engaged in a sanitized tour, neglecting critical areas like hospitals where casualties are high. The US continues to support its controversial aid distribution system, despite evidence of starvation and ongoing violence, while Hamas undermines possible negotiations by showcasing hostage conditions. Want More Context? 🔎