Elon Musk stirred controversy after demanding weekly progress reports from all U.S. federal employees, implying that failure to comply would lead to resignation. The directive was supported and criticized in equal measure. Senator Tina Smith responded sarcastically, saying Musk wasn’t her boss, highlighting her efforts to fight tax breaks for billionaires. In a twist, GOP member Dustin Grage jokingly claimed to be Smith's boss. Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump lauded Musk’s efforts, calling him a "patriot."

Scientists have discovered that the Oort cloud, a mysterious debris field at the solar system's edge, may resemble a "mini galaxy" with spiral arms. This cloud, located between 2,000 and 5,000 astronomical units away, is believed to be the source of strange comets and meteorites like 'Oumuamua,' the cigar-shaped rock that passed Earth in 2017. Using supercomputer models, researchers from NASA have simulated the gravitational influence of the galactic tide, revealing a spiral structure stretching 15,000 AU. Although this spiral is challenging to detect directly, it provides new insight into the Oort cloud's shape and its connection to the solar system's origin.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has criticized the Samajwadi Party (SP) for appointing Azam Khan, a "non-Sanatani," to oversee the 2013 Kumbh Mela. Addressing the state assembly, Adityanath highlighted that during the SP's tenure, the then Chief Minister did not personally oversee the Kumbh arrangements, delegating the responsibility to Khan instead. In contrast, Adityanath emphasized the successful organization of the current Maha Kumbh, noting participation from high-profile figures such as President Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and international delegates from 74 countries. He also refuted SP chief Akhilesh Yadav's recent criticisms regarding the event's management, asserting that the ongoing festival has achieved global recognition and participation.

On the anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Chinese President Xi Jinping reaffirmed China's "no limits" partnership with Russia in a phone call with President Vladimir Putin. The leaders discussed their alliance's resilience against external pressures, with Xi emphasizing that their strategic partnership is not influenced by third parties. They also addressed China's role in promoting peace efforts in Ukraine. The call comes amid U.S. political developments, including Donald Trump's stance on the war. Xi and Putin also discussed upcoming commemorations for World War II, with Xi confirming his attendance at the event in Moscow.

In 2024, the world witnessed a record 296 internet shutdowns across 54 countries, surpassing the previous year's 283 shutdowns in 39 nations. For the first time since 2018, India did not top the global list, recording 84 shutdowns—just behind Myanmar’s 85. These disruptions in India were largely imposed during protests, communal violence, and political unrest. Manipur faced a nearly seven-month-long mobile internet suspension, while Jammu and Kashmir saw 17 shutdowns, including eight in late December 2023. Despite dropping to second place, India's frequent shutdowns continue to spark concerns over digital rights and freedom of expression.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi criticized opposition leaders, particularly from Bihar, for their negative remarks about the Maha Kumbh Mela. Referring to them as proponents of "jungle raj," he emphasized that their disdain for the event was an attack on India's heritage and faith. Modi's comments came after RJD leader Lalu Prasad Yadav called the Mela "meaningless," while other opposition figures criticized the management of the event and its facilities. In contrast, Modi praised the Mela’s significance and assured the public that the people of Bihar would not forgive those who criticized it, underscoring the government's efforts to preserve India's cultural legacy.

A parliamentary petition in Canada has garnered over 150,000 signatures, urging Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to revoke Elon Musk's Canadian citizenship. Initiated by British Columbia author Qualia Reed and sponsored by New Democratic Party MP Charlie Angus, the petition accuses Musk of activities contrary to Canada's national interests, particularly his advisory role to U.S. President Donald Trump, who has threatened Canada's sovereignty. Musk, born in South Africa, obtained Canadian citizenship through his mother. The petition will be presented in the House of Commons after its closing on June 20.   

Germany's recent election has set the stage for Friedrich Merz, leader of the Christian Democrats, to likely become the next chancellor. Despite his mixed popularity, Merz is positioned to lead a center-right coalition. The election, which came after the governing coalition collapsed, revealed several key developments: Merkel's legacy waned, Trump’s influence didn’t sway voters, and the far-right AfD saw a slight increase in support but failed to meet expectations. Die Linke, the far-left party, surged thanks to dynamic leadership. Meanwhile, Chancellor Olaf Scholz and his Social Democrats suffered a historic defeat, leaving them to likely return as a junior partner in government.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has proposed an "all for all" prisoner exchange with Russia as a foundational step toward ending the ongoing conflict. Addressing the G20 summit in Bali, Zelenskyy outlined a 10-point peace plan, emphasizing the immediate need for such a swap to facilitate the release of thousands of military and civilian detainees held by both nations. He urged global leaders to support this initiative, highlighting it as a critical move to alleviate human suffering and pave the way for broader peace negotiations. 

Following Pakistan’s latest defeat to India in a major cricket tournament, fans are expressing growing frustration over the once-thrilling rivalry. Many now see the matches as predictable and one-sided, referring to them as “salana beizzati” (annual humiliation). Supporters lament the lack of competitiveness, with some questioning whether the rivalry holds any real significance anymore. Analysts point to internal cricketing issues, inconsistent performances, and misplaced overconfidence as key factors behind Pakistan’s struggles. As India continues to dominate, the rivalry seems to have lost its competitive edge, leaving Pakistani fans disheartened and calling for major reforms in their cricket setup.