Presiding over Canada’s Parliament opening for the first time in nearly 50 years, King Charles III delivered a subtle rebuke to US President Donald Trump, urging Canada-US relations to be grounded in “mutual respect.” The statement came amid rising tensions and trade friction between the two nations. In his Speech from the Throne, King Charles emphasized Canada’s shift toward reliable global alliances and reiterated plans to cap temporary residents at 5% of the population by 2027. Prime Minister Mark Carney’s new government also pledged to cut middle-class taxes, reduce crime, and balance the budget within three years. (PC: Reuters)

The US has paused new student visa interviews to expand social media checks, according to a report by Politico. Secretary of State Marco Rubio signed the order. It affects F, M, and J visa categories. The move could delay visa processing and hurt US universities that rely on international students. Over 1.1 million foreign students studied in the US in 2023-24, contributing $43.8 billion to the economy. The Trump administration says the step is to fight terrorism and antisemitism. Critics fear this may target students linked to protests. Further guidelines are expected soon. (PC: Reuters)

On May 27, 2025, the U.S.-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) commenced aid distribution in Gaza, delivering approximately 8,000 food boxes—equivalent to 462,000 meals—after nearly three months of an Israeli blockade. Despite the pressing need, many Palestinians are skeptical of the initiative due to concerns over biometric screenings and the foundation's ties to the U.S. and Israel. Hamas has warned residents against engaging with GHF, labeling it a potential intelligence operation. The United Nations and Red Cross have boycotted the program, citing violations of humanitarian principles. Additionally, TRIAL International has requested Swiss authorities to investigate GHF's compliance with international humanitarian law. The ongoing Israeli military campaign, initiated after a Hamas-led attack in October 2023, has resulted in over 54,000 Palestinian deaths, exacerbating the region's humanitarian crisis. (PC: Reuters)  

In Liverpool, United Kingdom, a 53-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after driving a car into crowds celebrating Liverpool FC’s Premier League victory parade on Monday. The suspect, from West Derby, also faces charges of dangerous driving and driving under the influence of drugs. He allegedly followed an ambulance through a lifted roadblock before crashing into spectators. Fifty people were treated for injuries; eleven remain in hospital in stable condition. Police have ruled out terrorism. UK Home Secretary Yvette Cooper visited the site and commended emergency workers as investigations and CCTV reviews continue. (PC: Getty Images)

A video of French President Emmanuel Macron appearing to be shoved aside by his wife, Brigitte, while deboarding a plane has gone viral, sparking a flood of memes and jokes online. Shot by an AP journalist, the clip shows Brigitte pushing Macron’s face as he prepares to exit, prompting a calm smile and wave from the President. Macron later called the moment “a joke,” downplaying its seriousness while speaking in Vietnam. Social media reacted swiftly, with users calling it a “French slap” and “man-handling,” while others shared AI-generated images and slow-motion clips, fueling the viral frenzy. 

On May 27, 2025, the US Embassy in India issued a strong advisory to international students, warning that skipping classes, dropping out, or leaving academic programs without notifying their institutions can lead to immediate visa revocation. The embassy stressed that such actions could also result in ineligibility for future US visas. This move follows increased immigration enforcement measures, with over 4,700 international students reportedly deported earlier this year. The embassy urged all students to strictly follow visa regulations and maintain full-time academic status to avoid serious immigration consequences. (PC: The India EXPRESS)    

On May 27, 2025, a massive explosion rocked the Shandong Youdao Chemical Co. plant in Weifang, eastern China, killing at least five people, injuring 19, and leaving six others missing. The blast, which occurred around noon, was powerful enough to shatter windows over three kilometers away and send thick plumes of orange and black smoke into the sky. The facility, which manufactures pesticides and pharmaceutical chemicals, employs over 300 people. More than 230 emergency personnel were deployed to manage the fire and search for survivors. Authorities have advised nearby residents to wear masks due to potential air quality concerns. This incident adds to a series of industrial accidents in China, highlighting ongoing safety challenges in the chemical sector. (PC: Reuters)

Nepali mountaineer Kami Rita Sherpa has broken his own world record by reaching the summit of Mount Everest for the 31st time. Known as “Everest Man,” the 55-year-old guide led a 22-member Indian Army team via the southeast ridge route, accompanied by 27 Sherpas. Rita first summited Everest in 1994 and has climbed it nearly every year since. “I’m just working,” he said after a previous ascent, adding he is proud to represent Nepal. With 8,849 meters of altitude conquered again, Rita remains a global symbol of endurance and pride in Nepal’s rich mountaineering legacy. (PC: Reuters)

A celebration turned to tragedy as a car ploughed into crowds during Liverpool FC’s Premier League victory parade, injuring nearly 50 people, including four children. The driver, a 53-year-old white British man, was arrested at the scene. Authorities confirmed the incident is not being treated as terrorism. Liverpool Mayor Steve Rotheram reported four people remain in critical condition. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said, “The whole country stands with Liverpool,” praising emergency responders who “did a fantastic job.” Former manager Jurgen Klopp said he and his family were “shocked and devastated.” Police urge against speculation as the investigation continues. (PC: BBC)

Over 800 UK legal professionals, including former Supreme Court justices, have urged Prime Minister Keir Starmer to impose sanctions on Israel and suspend trade agreements, asserting that Israel's actions in Gaza constitute war crimes, crimes against humanity, and potentially genocide. Their letter, supported by a 35-page legal memorandum, emphasizes the UK's legal obligation to prevent and punish genocide and uphold humanitarian law. The signatories argue that current UK measures are insufficient and call for immediate sanctions on Israeli officials, a permanent ceasefire, restoration of humanitarian aid, and enforcement of potential ICC arrest warrants. This appeal highlights a growing domestic and international demand for the UK to enforce international law standards. (PC: The Guardian)