President Joe Biden labeled India, Japan, China, and Russia as "xenophobic," suggesting their alleged resistance to immigrants hinders economic growth. The remark drew criticism, prompting the White House to issue a clarification. Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre stated that Biden was making a "broader point" about the importance of immigration for the US economy. She affirmed that American allies and partners are well aware of Biden's respect for them. Jean-Pierre emphasized that the President's comments were intended to highlight the nation's identity as a country of immigrants, which contributes to its strength.

UK Foreign Secretary David Cameron reaffirmed the UK's support for Ukraine, pledging £3 billion yearly "for as long as necessary" during his visit to Kyiv. This commitment, the largest since Russia's invasion, emphasizes ongoing assistance to Ukraine's defense efforts. Cameron expressed solidarity with Ukraine's right to self-defense, allowing the use of UK-supplied weapons within Russian territory. The aid package includes military equipment, investment in energy infrastructure, and international cooperation to meet Ukraine's urgent needs. Despite ruling out troop deployment, the UK remains steadfast in its commitment, underscoring bipartisan agreement on Ukraine policy amid potential Labour government considerations.

London's famed nightlife scene is crumbling, with thousands of clubs, bars and pubs shuttering after COVID-19 lockdowns. The diminished late-night offerings are now taking a toll on tourism. Early closing times and limited Night Tube service are frustrating visitors accustomed to cities that stay lively into the early hours. In today's mayoral election, candidates propose remedies like nightlife funds, expanded night transit, and permission for "hail and ride" buses. Restoring London's vibrant social scene is crucial, as the city's nightlife was previously a major draw for millions of annual tourists seeking an unparalleled European party experience.

Amazon and Google have suspended US green card applications for immigrants for the rest of 2024, citing stiff competition and recent layoffs. This move will make it harder for overseas candidates to work in the US tech industry. Both companies have halted PERM applications until next year, with Amazon citing inability to continue with the process and Google notifying employees of a pause until 2025. The green card process has become increasingly complex amid massive tech layoffs, leaving foreign workers in a precarious situation.

Eight Syrian soldiers were injured in Israeli airstrikes near Damascus on Thursday night, according to Syria's defence ministry. The strikes, launched from the occupied Syrian Golan, targeted a site near Damascus. Israel rarely comments on individual strikes but has repeatedly targeted Iranian presence in Syria. The strikes have increased since Israel's war with Hamas began in October. Recent tensions have escalated with Iran launching drones and missiles against Israel in April, retaliating against a deadly strike on Tehran's consulate in Damascus.

John Hopkins University professor Dipali Mukhopadhyay has requested to revoke her affiliation with Columbia University's Saltzman Institute of War and Peace Studies over the handling of student protests against Gaza violence. Arrests continue across US campuses as police dismantle pro-Palestinian protest camps, including at UCLA. In an email to Columbia's president, Mukhopadhyay cited the administration's "incompetence and inhumanity" in responding to peaceful protests. Expressing solidarity with students advocating for academic freedom, she declared her inability to justify her association with the institution under the current leadership.

Princess Charlotte's ninth birthday was commemorated with a photograph shared by Catherine, Princess of Wales, as she continues her private fight against cancer. Kate Middleton, credited with taking the picture, also recently captured an image of her younger son, Prince Louis, on his sixth birthday. Amidst health concerns, Charlotte remains third in line to the throne, following her elder brother Prince George and father, Prince William. The royal family faces challenges with Kate's absence from public life and her father-in-law, King Charles III, also undergoing cancer treatment, their specific conditions undisclosed.            

President Biden spoke up about the protests happening in universities across the US regarding the situation in Gaza. He said people have the right to speak out but shouldn't cause trouble or violence. Biden stressed the importance of peaceful protest and said damaging property or disrupting classes isn't acceptable. He also said it's vital for democracy to allow people to express their opinions without causing chaos. Despite calls for military involvement, Biden said no and emphasized the need for order. The protests reflect the complicated relationship between the US and Israel during the ongoing conflict.

Russia announced the capture of Berdychi village in eastern Ukraine, as its forces continue to advance against Ukrainian troops. The move comes ahead of the arrival of US weapons for Kyiv's defense. Moscow's defense ministry stated troops "fully liberated" Berdychi, while Kyiv confirmed its retreat from the village. Berdychi, near Avdiivka, marks the latest in a series of claimed gains by Russia in recent weeks. Ukraine's commander-in-chief cited tactical challenges in the area, acknowledging Russia's progress.

Israel's military is under scrutiny following the shooting of an eight-year-old Palestinian boy, Adam, and his friend Basil, 15. Evidence suggests serious human rights violations, prompting accusations of a possible war crime. Witnesses and footage indicate the boys posed no immediate threat when shot by soldiers. Concerns arise over the use of lethal force and alleged mistreatment of the deceased. Experts call for an investigation into potential breaches of international law. The incident highlights escalating tensions in the West Bank, raising questions about the military's conduct and its impact on Palestinian civilians.