Stories that are getting the most attention from our readers this month.
Washington, D.C.: President Trump condemned President Putin as “absolutely CRAZY” following Russia’s largest drone attack on Ukraine but simultaneously scolded Ukrainian President Zelenskiy to “shut up” about endless requests for aid. Despite hinting at new sanctions on Moscow, Trump’s rebuke of Zelenskiy startled Kyiv’s allies. Critics say it weakens Western unity; supporters claim it’s part of Trump’s transactional approach.
Cupertino, California, USA: Fortnite remains banned on Apple’s U.S. App Store, despite Apple reinstating it elsewhere. Epic Games accuses Apple of “retaliation” for not approving an update that would restore Fortnite to American iPhones. Apple insists Epic must comply with App Store rules first. The dispute began when Epic challenged Apple’s 30% commission. A 2023 appeals court upheld much of Apple’s policy but required some payment changes. Now, Fortnite players in the U.S. must resort to PCs, consoles, or web-based workarounds.
Hollywood, USA: Marvel Studios confirmed that Avengers: Doomsday and Avengers: Secret Wars are being postponed from mid-2026 and mid-2027 to holiday releases in December of each year. Industry sources blame demanding VFX workloads and complex scheduling for the ensemble cast, including rumored returns for Robert Downey Jr. and Chris Evans in alternate roles. The shift leaves a gap in Marvel’s traditional summer blockbuster slot but may allow more polish on special effects and storyline coherence. Fans show mixed reactions—some are disappointed by the longer wait, others welcome extra time for the films to meet high expectations. Box office analysts see this as a strategic move: December releases often mean extended holiday revenue.
Washington, D.C., USA: Ed Martin, newly installed at the Justice Department as pardon attorney, is fast-tracking an application from Stewart Rhodes, the Oath Keepers founder convicted of seditious conspiracy. Critics worry Martin’s alignment with Jan. 6 defendants and concurrent role in a “weaponization working group” could mix political goals with pardon decisions. Some fear the White House may use pardons to reward allies and target opponents, while Martin argues he’s merely expediting due process.
Los Gatos, California, USA: Netflix clinched a deal to pick up Sesame Street after HBO let its contract expire, ensuring new episodes also run free on PBS. Media analysts praise Netflix for preserving a beloved children’s show, generating positive buzz as a “family-friendly hero.” HBO’s departure risked losing first-run Sesame Street on public TV. Now the iconic Muppets remain accessible to millions, and Netflix gains a big PR boost. Sesame Workshop is relieved to secure funding for educational content.
Texas, USA: SpaceX’s Starship launched from South Texas but disintegrated mid-flight—its third failed test. Elon Musk envisions Starship as humanity’s Mars transport within the decade, citing planetary settlement as essential before Earth’s eventual destruction in billions of years. Meanwhile, Tesla sees a 49% sales drop in Europe for April, marking the fourth consecutive monthly decline amid fierce regional EV competition. Left 0%, Center 100%, Right 0%
Paris, France: Rafael Nadal’s retirement leaves the French Open without its 14-time champion for the first time in two decades. Fans and rivals alike feel the void on Roland Garros’ clay. Novak Djokovic, now 38, is defending champion but also facing age and injury. Younger contenders like Carlos Alcaraz, Jannik Sinner, and Casper Ruud see a wide-open chance to claim the Coupe des Mousquetaires. Organizers plan tributes to Nadal, whose absence underscores a generational shift in men’s tennis. Bookmakers highlight unpredictability—someone new will lift the trophy.
Puglia, Italy: Once a niche cheese known primarily in its birthplace, burrata exploded into a $2.2 billion global phenomenon. Fueled by viral social media posts, it soared in popularity—becoming a staple on high-end restaurant menus worldwide. Yet overuse and repetitive presentations led critics to label it “a blob of boring.” Demand remains robust despite fatigue among trendsetters, highlighting burrata’s enduring appeal. Chefs are challenged to find fresh, inventive uses to sustain consumer interest.