Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto launched a multi-billion dollar program to provide free meals to over a quarter of the population, starting with 570,000 recipients. The initiative aims to combat child malnutrition and boost regional economic growth, despite concerns over its $28 billion cost. Initially, 190 kitchens serve meals to schoolchildren and pregnant women, with plans to expand to 82.9 million people by 2029. The program, supported by the government and military, will gradually increase recipients to 3 million by March. Penelope Kingsley 06/01/2025 1:30 pm
Elon Musk’s recent social media attacks on the UK government, including labeling a minister a “rape genocide apologist,” prompted a strong response from Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Starmer criticized Musk’s spreading of conspiracies and misinformation, emphasizing the need for truth in politics. Musk’s comments have also strained his relationship with Nigel Farage, leader of Reform UK, over Musk’s support for far-right activist Tommy Robinson. Farage, initially close to Musk, disagreed with Musk’s call for new leadership in Reform UK. Penelope Kingsley 06/01/2025 1:30 pm
Thirty-two dolphins have died following a fuel oil spill from storm-damaged tankers in the Kerch Strait, according to Russia’s Delfa Dolphin Rescue and Research Center. The spill is suspected to be the cause. A total of 61 dead cetaceans have been found, but 29 likely died before the spill. Most of the dead dolphins are from the endangered Azov species. Russia’s Emergencies Ministry has removed over 96,000 tons of contaminated sand and soil. The spill has been declared an “ecological disaster” by President Putin. The Kerch Strait is a crucial shipping route and a point of conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Penelope Kingsley 06/01/2025 1:30 pm
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is reportedly considering resigning as Liberal Party leader before a key caucus meeting, amid crises including tariff threats from Donald Trump and poor opinion polls. His potential resignation comes ahead of a general election, where the Liberals are expected to lose to the Conservative Party. Deputy PM Chrystia Freeland’s resignation, criticizing Trudeau’s policies, adds to the turmoil. It’s unclear if Trudeau would also step down as prime minister immediately. The Liberal Party’s national executive is set to meet soon to address leadership issues. Noah Prescott 06/01/2025 1:30 pm
In South Korea, impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol remains in his compound, resisting detention and search warrants. A standoff occurred as investigators were blocked by presidential security. Yoon imposed martial law briefly, citing governance needs against a dominant opposition. The anti-corruption agency is seeking new warrants to detain him. The political turmoil has unsettled the country’s politics and markets. Ava Sinclair 06/01/2025 1:30 pm
Three people were killed and eight wounded in a terror attack near Kedumim in the West Bank. Magen David Adom treated the injured, including a seriously wounded bus driver. Victims were taken to hospitals in Petah Tikva and Kfar Saba. The IDF is conducting a manhunt for the attackers, setting up roadblocks. Prime Minister Netanyahu vowed to hold the perpetrators accountable, and Defense Minister Katz instructed the IDF to act decisively. Penelope Kingsley 06/01/2025 10:01 am
Elon Musk withdrew support for Nigel Farage, leader of Reform UK, after Farage distanced himself from far-right activist Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, aka Tommy Robinson. Musk criticized Farage, suggesting Reform UK needs new leadership. Musk falsely claimed Yaxley-Lennon was jailed for exposing a child grooming scandal, while he was actually sentenced for contempt of court. Farage emphasized Yaxley-Lennon’s imprisonment was unrelated to speaking against grooming gangs and maintained his stance despite Musk’s surprise criticism. Farage stated he wouldn’t compromise his principles for Reform UK. Ava Sinclair 06/01/2025 10:01 am
Thousands gathered near impeached South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol’s residence as his arrest warrant neared expiration. Protesters were divided, with some deeming the warrant illegal and others demanding his arrest. The warrant, issued for Yoon’s martial law imposition, expires January 6. Yoon, suspended since December 14, declared martial law citing opposition actions. Tensions rose after investigators retreated from a standoff at Yoon’s residence. Supporters camped to protect him, while opponents demanded his arrest. Legal experts question the warrant’s validity due to procedural exclusions. Ava Sinclair 06/01/2025 10:01 am
Despite ceasefires with Gaza and Hezbollah, Israel faces persistent missile threats from Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi rebels. These attacks have disrupted daily life, damaged infrastructure, and impacted Israel’s economy by deterring foreign airlines and affecting tourism. The Houthis’ strikes, often penetrating Israel’s defense systems, symbolize the ongoing threat from the “Axis of Resistance.” Israel’s counterattacks have not deterred the Houthis, challenging its image as a regional military power. The conflict has also affected shipping routes, increasing costs and complicating logistics. Ava Sinclair 06/01/2025 10:01 am
Sister Inah Canabarro, a 116-year-old nun from Brazil, is now the world’s oldest living person, according to LongeviQuest. Known for her love of soccer and art, she attributes her longevity to her Catholic faith. Born in 1908, Canabarro has a rich history, including a great-grandfather who was a notable Brazilian general. Despite recent health challenges, her spirits are lifted by her nephew’s visits and messages. She spent her life teaching and engaging in religious work across South America. Penelope Kingsley 06/01/2025 6:30 am