U.S. has made contact with Syrian rebel group HTS, Blinken says

Premiers across Canada are taking on more responsibility in response to Prime Minister Trudeau's perceived lack of leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic. This shift in power has been prompted by the need for quick and decisive action to combat the virus and its economic impact. The premiers are stepping up to fill the void left by the federal government's inaction, demonstrating their commitment to protecting their citizens and ensuring the nation's well-being. Full Article

Campaigning in Bolivia for Sunday's judicial election is strictly forbidden, but candidates have resorted to subtle tactics like promoting themselves on corn puff packets. The elections are seen as a way to purge corruption and boost democracy, but apathetic voters are frustrated by the lack of knowledge about the candidates. The election, delayed due to power struggles, only involves a partial vote for seats on the Constitutional Court, raising concerns about the legitimacy of the...

Students in Syria have returned to classrooms following the reopening of schools, signaling a return to normalcy after opposition fighters ousted President Bashar al-Assad. New leader Ahmad al-Sharaa faces the daunting task of rebuilding a country devastated by 13 years of war, with cities in ruins and millions of refugees living in camps. Despite some parents' hesitation, most schools across the country have reopened, with students expressing optimism and relief at the prospect of a...

A devastating cyclone hit the Mayotte archipelago, causing widespread destruction and leaving several hundred feared dead. Entire settlements were flattened, with the poorest residents in makeshift shelters being hit the hardest. French aid and rescue workers are working to assess the damage and reach isolated communities, while residents struggle with severe shortages of food, water, and shelter. Full Article

MSNBC legal analyst Barbara McQuade expressed concerns about the "chilling effect" the ABC settlement with Donald Trump could have on critics. ABC News settled a defamation suit with Trump, paying him $15 million and issuing statements of regret. Critics worry this may impact media confidence and public trust in the justice system. Full Article

Trevor Phillips challenges Tory MP Chris Philp's claim that the Rwanda scheme was a deterrent, pointing out that it never actually happened despite the £715 million spent on it. Labour scrapped the policy after winning the election, and Keir Starmer emphasizes the need to combat people smuggling gangs to stop small boat crossings, as thousands of migrants continue to make the dangerous journey from France. Full Article