EU chief proposes Canada as first 'associate member'

Proposes opening the door for Canada to become the first associate member of the European Union.

Associate membership is not currently in EU treaties or law, making the proposal novel and legally uncertain. The proposal is a response to shared concerns about Donald Trump and China, rather than a purely symbolic gesture. Associate membership would require treaty changes and face political and financial hurdles, including public support in both regions.

At least 20 people, including five children, have died after a war-damaged building collapsed in Gaza. Families lived in the unsafe building due to harsh conditions and lack of suitable shelters. Rescuers face equipment shortages due to Israeli border restrictions, which Israel says are for security reasons.

The alleged Mecca drone attack is likely Houthi propaganda to demonstrate their reach and capability.

There is no evidence for either the Mecca drone claim or the Houthi jet shootdown, and the Mecca allegation may be concocted propaganda.

Attacking Mecca would be very bad optics for the Houthis, making the claim strategically counterproductive.

Women in Iran report greater public freedom and defiance of hijab laws, though enforcement continues and the government's priorities have shifted amid war. The changes have sparked polarisation and backlash from conservative groups, including religious women demanding hijab enforcement.

Hashim Thaci is sentenced to 25 years for war crimes including murder, torture, and illegal detention.

The conviction addresses long-standing allegations against the KLA and demonstrates that international justice applies regardless of which side won.

A chancellor swap is circulating within the CDU following electoral losses, and upcoming state elections could further threaten the party's standing.

Venue owners pressured Sheeran's team to drop Macklemore after pro-Palestinian comments sparked petitions and criticism. Sheeran's attempt to mediate failed, and all support acts and his backing band quit the tour in solidarity.

The museum's mission has shifted from classifying the natural world to protecting and restoring it.

The exhibition pairs historic and modern objects, like a colonised Star Wars figurine, to illustrate humanity's changing relationship with nature.