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TikTok renews deal, brings back Taylor Swift, Drake songs
TikTokers, the return of their favourite songs is finally here. A new licensing agreement between TikTok and Universal Music Group (UMG) will reinstate the songs and artists of the record label on the social media platform. This includes compositions by The Weeknd, Taylor Swift, and Drake, among others.
US claims Russia used chemical weapons in Ukraine war
"This is not an isolated incident; rather, it is likely an attempt by Russian forces to dislodge Ukrainian forces from fortified positions and achieve tactical gains on the battlefield," the US Department of State said in a statement on Wednesday, which also named entities associated with Russia's invasion of Ukraine and also referred to the use of such chemicals.
John Swinney joins SNP leadership race to succeed Humza Yousaf
As of Monday, in the wake of Mr Yousaf's resignation from the SNP and Scotland, an ongoing inquiry is underway to identify a new leader. John Swinney has declared his intention to succeed Humza Yousaf as leader of the Scottish National Party and first minister of Scotland. The MSP for Perthshire North has been in the opposition for the past year, having resigned as deputy first minister in 2023, following the resignation of Nicola Sturgeon.
Over a quarter of Brits still use sunbeds regularly
Their association with skin cancer has been recognized for years. A study reveals, however, that more than a quarter of adults continue to use sunbeds, with many being oblivious to the dangers involved. Young people, who aspire to have tanned bodies like those of contestants on reality television programs like Love Island, are at the top of the list.
Data shows Chinese state aid hampers Western business competition
As of now, the analysis conducted by the OECD Club of Nations represents the most exhaustive endeavour to quantify the various forms of state aid and to compare regions. In comparison to their Western counterparts, Chinese manufacturers receive nine times more government support, according to calculations by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). These figures help to explain China's overwhelming dominance in so many industries, including steel, solar panels, and batteries.
Hiscox premiums rise, predicts ‘moderate’ loss post Baltimore Bridge
Although written premiums increased in the first quarter, Hiscox warned of a "moderate" loss due to the aftermath of the Baltimore Bridge disaster. For the initial quarter of the year, there was an 8.3 per cent surge in total insurance contract written premiums (ICWP), which reached $1.5 billion. It was bolstered by Hiscox's retail division which saw written premiums grow 5.8 per cent, as well as robust performances in the UK - up 8.3 per cent - and Europe.
Georgia: Stun grenades on protesters as ‘Russia bill’ advances
A commotion also ensued in the parliament of Georgia, where the leader of the opposition declared himself to have been beaten by the police while clad in bandages. Further violence has ensued in Georgia as police confront demonstrators who are opposed to a purported "Russian law" with stun grenades and tear gas.
Ex-politician filmed killing wife, angering Kazakhstan
The trial has incited extensive discourse regarding domestic abuse in a nation where the annual fatal toll from this type of violence is estimated to be at least 400 women. The murder prosecution of a former senior politician in Kazakhstan, who is charged with fatally assaulting his wife, has garnered widespread national interest and prompted demands for the enactment of fresh legislation to address the issue of domestic violence.
Former US security adviser: Iran threatens Arab lives for Israel’s destruction
Additionally, HR McMaster stated that the reduction in the capability of the United Kingdom's armed forces "broke my heart" because nations must "demonstrate strength" to avert further conflict. Former US national security adviser: Iran is prepared to "expend every Arab life" in its quest to eliminate Western influence in the Middle East and annihilate Israel.
US claims Russia suffocating Ukraine with chemicals
The United States has accused Russia of violating international laws prohibiting the use of chemical weapons by employing them as a "method of warfare" in Ukraine. According to State Department officials, Russia achieved "battlefield gains" over Ukraine by employing the choking agent chloropicrin. According to US officials, the allegations were not an "isolated" incident and would violate Russia's signature on the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC).
Kate released smiling photo of Princess Charlotte’s ninth birthday
Kensington Palace has published an additional photograph of Princess Charlotte on her ninth birthday. The palace captioned the social media post with the following: "Happy Ninth Birthday, Princess Charlotte! I would like to extend my sincere appreciation for all the kind messages received today. The Princess of Wales was the photographer of the image.
Russian military accused of ‘executing’ Ukrainian surrenderers
According to a new report by an international rights organization, it appears that Ukrainian soldiers who attempted to surrender or had already surrendered since December 2023 were executed by Russian forces. According to a report released on Thursday by Human Rights Watch (HRW), an investigation into the actions should be conducted as war crimes.
