China calls for 'peaceful coexistence' with the U.S. despite differences

This article is an on-site version of our Europe Express newsletter. Premium subscribers can sign up here to get the newsletter delivered every weekday and fortnightly on Saturday morning. Standard subscribers can upgrade to Premium here, or explore all FT newslettersUkrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced he is prepared for face-to-face peace talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Turkey this week, amid a backdrop of conflicting proposals regarding a ceasefire. Despite Zelenskyy's call for a...

The White House announced a potential “China trade deal” following talks in Switzerland, with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer expressing optimism but providing no specifics. In related news, Hamas agreed to release Edan Alexander, a dual U.S.-Israeli citizen, as part of efforts towards a ceasefire in Gaza, confirmed by U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff. Additionally, discussions on immigration policies and the Democratic Party's future were highlighted, with Sen. Amy Klobuchar...

Axel Rudakubana, an 18-year-old serving a 52-year sentence for the brutal stabbing of three young girls, has been placed under heightened security in Belmarsh Prison after allegedly attacking a guard with boiling water. His actions mirror a similar incident involving Manchester Arena terrorist Hashem Abedi, raising concerns over inspiration for such violence. Rudakubana, described as having a sadistic motive targeting vulnerable victims, had previously attempted to kill numerous children and adults during a dance class....

The Eurovision Song Contest commenced in Basel with a parade, but protests erupted over Israel's participation amidst its ongoing conflict in Gaza. Demonstrators expressed their discontent, waving Palestinian flags and holding signs, while Yuval Raphael, Israel's entrant, faced hostility, including a throat-slitting gesture aimed at her. The event, featuring 37 competing countries, is expected to draw around 160 million viewers, with Switzerland hosting following its 2024 win, and the semi-finals set to determine the finalists...

SINGAPORE: Three individuals were charged on May 12 for breaking into a Bukit Timah residence, stealing S$684,800 (US$528,000) in cash and valuables, including luxury watches. The suspects, Hernando Giraldo Franco (60), Garces Murillo Mateo Andres (48), and Garcia Iglesias Hector Daniel (51), were apprehended within 27 hours of the incident, with police recovering significant amounts of cash and other items. Investigations are ongoing, and if convicted, they face up to 10 years in prison and...

SummaryTwo major European trade unions have accused ECB president Christine Lagarde of undermining workers' rights by proposing changes to the central bank's works council, which would limit staff representatives' time for advocacy. The ECB's plan, which aims to be implemented by mid-2026, would require council members to split their time between representation and normal roles, drawing criticism from union leaders who argue it would hinder effective employee representation. Legal experts also express concern that these...