Trump Turns Up Trade Pressure on China After Beijing Fails to Come Running

Tom Geoghegan and James FitzGeraldBBC NewsGetty ImagesJeffrey Epstein in Cambridge, Massachusetts, in 2004The Trump administration faces pressure regarding the "Epstein files" linked to sex crimes by Jeffrey Epstein, amid reports of Trump's name appearing in investigations. Although named, Trump has not been accused of wrongdoing, and recent releases have not provided new revelations, while speculation persists about potential unreleased documents implicating high-profile individuals. Want More Context? 🔎

The U.S. fertility rate fell to an all-time low of 1.599 in 2024, down from 1.621 in 2023, as women increasingly delay childbirth or choose not to have children, mirroring trends in Western Europe. Officials express concern, prompting initiatives like expanded IVF access, but experts suggest these measures may not address broader issues such as parental leave and affordable childcare. Want More Context? 🔎

In the weeks leading up to the stabbings of four University of Idaho students by Bryan Kohberger, unsettling incidents occurred at their rental home, including one victim, Kaylee Goncalves, reporting an unfamiliar man staring at her. Following Kohberger's sentencing to life in prison, police documents revealed extensive investigative efforts, including DNA evidence linking him to the crime and his eventual arrest, while the motive remains unclear. Want More Context? 🔎

Five former members of Canada's world junior hockey team stand trial for allegedly sexually assaulting a woman in a 2018 incident in London, Ontario, with the key issue being her consent to the acts. The case has sparked national debate on hockey culture, especially following Hockey Canada's handling of the allegations and subsequent fallout, including loss of sponsorships and federal funding. Want More Context? 🔎

The Justice Department fired Desiree Leigh Grace as U.S. Attorney for the District of New Jersey shortly after federal judges appointed her over President Trump's nominee, Alina Habba, whose term as acting U.S. attorney expired. Attorney General Pam Bondi criticized the judges' decision, emphasizing the DOJ's stance against perceived judicial overreach that undermines presidential authority. Want More Context? 🔎

French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife, Brigitte, have filed a defamation lawsuit against conservative commentator Candace Owens for her false claims, including that Brigitte was born male, which they allege were made for personal gain and caused them significant distress. The 200-page complaint includes 22 counts of defamation, seeking damages, while Owens' representatives argue the lawsuit attacks her First Amendment rights. Want More Context? 🔎