Desi Bouterse, a dictator convicted of murder who twice ruled Suriname, has died at 79

Srinagar, India-administered Kashmir – Authorities have banned 25 books, including Hafsa Kanjwal's award-winning *Colonizing Kashmir*, claiming they "misguide youth" and instigate violence, amid heightened censorship since 2019. Ironically, this occurs alongside a state-sponsored book festival, highlighting New Delhi's intensified control over academic discourse in the region. Want More Context? 🔎

Suffolk County Sheriff Steven Tompkins, 67, was arrested on federal extortion charges for allegedly pressuring a cannabis company executive into a $50,000 investment deal under threat of harming their business. If convicted, he faces up to 20 years in prison, as prosecutors highlight the case as a commitment to combat public corruption. Want More Context? 🔎

Turkey aims to become a regional energy hub, initiating natural gas exports to Syria from Azerbaijan, supported by Qatar, to alleviate Syria's electricity shortages. This strategic move not only enhances Turkey's influence in energy dynamics but also reflects shifting alliances, as Arab monarchies invest significantly in Syria amidst global energy market disruptions. Want More Context? 🔎

Ancient dinosaur footprints, dating back 110-115 million years, were uncovered in Northwest Travis County, Texas, following recent flooding that exposed them. Confirmed by UT paleontologists, the tracks include those of carnivorous dinosaurs similar to Acrocanthosaurus and possibly the herbivorous Paluxysaurus, Texas's state dinosaur. Want More Context? 🔎

A couple, Marcone da Silva Cardoso, 28, and Adriana Machado Ribeiro, 42, tragically died when their vehicle rolled off a cliff in Venda Nova do Imigrante, Brazil, while they were intimate inside. The car fell nearly 400 meters, and police found no evidence of foul play; both victims had been in a relationship for about six months, with Ribeiro leaving two children and Cardoso a four-year-old son. Want More Context? 🔎

Mexico's government is pursuing compensation from Adidas, accusing the brand of cultural appropriation for its new Oaxaca Slip-On shoes, which resemble traditional huaraches without authorization from the Indigenous community in Villa de Hidalgo Yalalag. President Claudia Sheinbaum emphasized the need for compliance with heritage laws to protect collective intellectual property, while Adidas has agreed to meet with Oaxacan officials regarding restitution. Want More Context? 🔎