plain
Updated at 8:00 AM ET — Next update in 57 min
Markets S&P 500 7,580.06 +0.22% DOW 51,032.46 +0.72% NASDAQ 26,972.62 +0.20% Oil 87.36 -1.73% Market closed
Business

Exxon warns oil inventories approaching critical lows amid Iran conflict

Exxon Mobil warned that global oil inventories will reach dangerously low levels within weeks as the ongoing conflict with Iran continues to disrupt trade routes, forcing crude prices higher. The energy giant said it is approaching inventory levels rarely seen in the industry. The Middle East war has blocked key oil shipping lanes, straining global energy supplies. CNBC repor...

Yesterday, 4:20 PM ET

Exxon Mobil warned that global oil inventories will reach dangerously low levels within weeks as the ongoing conflict with Iran continues to disrupt trade routes, forcing crude prices higher.

The energy giant said it is approaching inventory levels rarely seen in the industry. The Middle East war has blocked key oil shipping lanes, straining global energy supplies.

CNBC reported that Exxon expects the situation to force oil prices to shoot higher in the coming weeks. The company noted that current market conditions leave few options for replacing lost supply.

The International Monetary Fund, World Bank, and other international organizations issued warnings that the Middle East conflict is putting severe pressure on global energy supplies. Yahoo Finance quoted industry observers saying the market has run out of alternatives, with one source stating that supply shortages cannot be solved quickly because "you cannot print molecules."

The Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments, remains a focal point of concern. Investopedia examined potential economic consequences for the United States if the strait remains closed for an extended period.

Exxon's warning comes as the company monitors its inventory levels across global operations. The firm has not disclosed specific timeline projections for when inventories might hit critical thresholds.

The oil market has faced mounting pressure as traditional supply routes through the Middle East remain disrupted. Industry analysts have noted that current inventory drawdowns are occurring at rates that outpace the ability of producers to compensate through alternative sources.

Energy companies typically maintain strategic reserves to buffer against supply disruptions, but the extended nature of the current conflict has tested those buffers. The situation has created uncertainty about near-term supply availability in major consuming markets.

Global financial institutions have flagged energy supply constraints as a growing risk to economic stability. The warnings from multiple organizations underscore the broader economic implications of the ongoing Middle East tensions beyond immediate energy markets.

Latest

World

No agreement reached in Trump meeting on Iran nuclear deal

President Trump met with advisers but did not announce a final decision on Iran, despite earlier confirmation that the US and Iran had agreed on a deal framework.

A few minutes ago

President Trump met with his advisers to make a final determination on Iran following official confirmation that the US and Iran had agreed on a framework for a potential deal. However, no agreement was announced after the meeting, leaving the status of negotiations uncertain.

The Guardian's analysis suggests Trump's initial maximalist goals have diminished through three months of negotiations. The reporting indicates that Iran has proven a challenging adversary for multiple US presidents, presenting sobering constraints on what the administration can realistically achieve in talks.

World

Defense Secretary Hegseth tells Asian allies to increase spending

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said Asian partners need to boost their defense contributions to receive priority US assistance.

1:57 AM ET

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth told Asian military leaders at a security summit in Singapore that countries increasing their defense spending would receive priority access to U.S. assistance. He stressed the importance of greater burden-sharing among regional allies while addressing concerns about American commitment to Asia.

Hegseth reassured partners that the U.S. remains engaged in the region, though he made clear that expanded support depends on increased defense contributions from allies. He highlighted China's military buildup as a key concern for the region.

Plain

Plain is free. Help keep it that way.

No ads. No paywalls. No agenda. Plain runs entirely on reader support. If it's worth something to you, consider buying us a coffee.

Business

Space Force awards SpaceX $6.45 billion in contracts before IPO

The U.S. Space Force granted SpaceX contracts totaling $6.45 billion, including $4.16 billion for a satellite network to track airborne targets.

Yesterday, 6:21 PM ET

SpaceX received $6.45 billion in contracts from the U.S. Space Force ahead of its planned initial public offering. According to the company's IPO filing, government contracts already accounted for one-fifth of SpaceX's 2025 revenue.

The largest award, valued at $4.16 billion, will fund development of a satellite network for the Space Based Airborne Target Indicator program, which detects and tracks airborne moving targets. The Space Force announced it is accelerating deployment of this system.

World

Ebola outbreak overwhelms remote mining town as deaths surge

A rare Ebola outbreak centered in Ituri province in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo has created a public health emergency, with nearly 1,000 suspected cases and at least 220 suspected deaths reported. The di...

8:00 AM ET

A rare Ebola outbreak centered in Ituri province in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo has created a public health emergency, with nearly 1,000 suspected cases and at least 220 suspected deaths reported. The disease has spread to neighboring Uganda and affected mining communities where transient populations complicate containment efforts.

As of recent reports, health authorities had confirmed 101 cases in the DRC and were investigating more than 3,000 possible contacts. Uganda reported seven confirmed cases and one death, with all confirmed cases appearing in the capital Kampala. A quarter of confirmed deaths involved children, according to aid group Save the Children, which called for urgent scaling up of infection prevention measures.

The World Health Organization estimates a death rate between 30 and 50 percent among confirmed cases. Anaïs Legand from the WHO's high threat pathogens team told reporters that this means up to five out of ten people are likely to die. WHO head Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus traveled to the DRC this week and called for an immediate ceasefire among armed groups to facilitate response efforts.

The outbreak in Ituri, confirmed on May 15, has spread south to rebel-held areas of North Kivu and South Kivu provinces. The region faces unique challenges due to ongoing armed conflict and population displacement. Nearly 1 million people in the province have been displaced by conflict, and armed groups control significant territory, making disease containment extremely difficult.

Tedros described the situation as a "catastrophic collision of disease and conflict," noting that "ongoing clashes are driving mass displacement, pushing exposed contacts into overcrowded camps and severing critical containment corridors." He emphasized that stopping transmission depends entirely on humanitarian access.

Medical workers face severe shortages of essential supplies. A doctor in Butembo reported having only two body bags remaining and shortages of soap, chlorine, and personal protective equipment including masks, gloves, boots and body suits. Foreign aid cuts to international and local NGOs have contributed to these gaps.

Response efforts have been further hampered by attacks on health facilities. People have attacked hospitals demanding the release of Ebola victims' bodies for traditional burials, which involve family members washing and touching the deceased. These practices spread the highly contagious virus, making secure burial protocols essential for containment.

Uganda closed its border with the DRC for four weeks, except for Ebola response teams, humanitarian operations and food transport. Anyone authorized to enter Uganda from the DRC must undergo mandatory self-isolation for 21 days. The UN refugee agency reported that transit and reception sites in Uganda's West Nile region were operating at more than double capacity.

The transient nature of mining communities in Ituri, which attract migrant workers, has complicated response efforts. Years of conflict have weakened community systems, and acute malnutrition has left many people too fragile to withstand the aggressive virus.

World

Russian drone strikes Romanian territory, injuring civilians

A Russian drone struck Romania near the Ukrainian border, marking the first civilian injuries from cross-border drone incidents in the NATO member state.

4:00 AM ET

A Russian drone crashed into an apartment building in eastern Romania near the Ukrainian border during an overnight attack on Ukraine, injuring two people. The incident marks the first casualty-causing strike on Romanian territory as drones from the conflict increasingly cross into NATO airspace.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said the alliance is "ready to defend every inch" of its territory following the strike. He called Russia's actions "reckless behaviour" that poses a danger to all members. The incident has intensified concerns about NATO's ability to protect member states and the strength of collective defense commitments amid the ongoing war in Ukraine.

Business

Blue Origin rocket explodes during test at Cape Canaveral

A Blue Origin rocket exploded on the launch pad in Florida during testing, raising concerns about NASA's lunar mission timeline.

Yesterday, 6:47 PM ET

A Blue Origin New Glenn rocket exploded during a test on a launch pad at Cape Canaveral in Florida on Thursday night. The blast occurred seconds after the start of a scheduled "hotfire" test at 9pm ET, creating a massive fireball that destroyed the launchpad. The explosion was visible from Fort Pierce, located 115 miles away. Blue Origin reported that no personnel were harmed and described the incident as an "anomaly."

The explosion threatens NASA's plans to establish a lunar base and return humans to the Moon within the next two years. Blue Origin holds contracts related to NASA's lunar programs, making this setback significant for the space agency's ambitious timeline.

U.S.

NTSB removes public access to docket system after AI audio reconstruction

The National Transportation Safety Board temporarily shut down its online docket system after digital images were used to reconstruct cockpit voice recordings.

6:00 AM ET

The National Transportation Safety Board took its public docket system offline temporarily. The action followed an incident in which digital images from the system were used to reconstruct cockpit voice recordings from a recent crash.

The NTSB has maintained a policy of keeping cockpit audio recordings private. The agency makes transcripts and other documents available through its docket system, but the emergence of AI tools capable of reconstructing audio from visual data has created new challenges for protecting the privacy of these recordings.

Note: The BBC article about Ukraine and AI drones is unrelated to the NTSB story, so the original card text is returned unchanged per your instructions.

Politics

Navy to use aircraft carrier for power supply at Norfolk naval base

The U.S. Navy plans to use the nuclear-powered U.S.S. Gerald R. Ford to provide electrical power to Naval Station Norfolk.

A few minutes ago

The U.S. Navy is planning to use the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier U.S.S. Gerald R. Ford to help charge Naval Station Norfolk. The Ford-class carrier will serve as a power source for the base's operations.

The Navy stated the effort aims to provide a reliable source of power for energy resilience and mission assurance. The plan represents a novel use of naval nuclear power assets to support shore-based operations at one of the service's largest installations.

Tech & Science

Trump administration seeks to shift coal ash oversight to states

Environmentalists gathered to oppose proposed changes to coal ash regulations.

6:00 AM ET

Large numbers of environmentalists have mobilized against Trump administration proposals to overhaul coal ash regulation. The administration plans to transfer monitoring and enforcement responsibilities from federal oversight to individual states.

Under the proposed changes, states would gain authority to set their own standards for coal ash disposal and management, rather than adhering to uniform national regulations. This would allow states to establish varying rules across the country.

Tech & Science

Kenyan court blocks US plan to transfer Ebola-exposed Americans to Kenya

A court has halted the Trump administration's proposal to move exposed individuals to Kenya.

Yesterday, 5:17 PM ET

A Kenyan court has blocked the Trump administration's plan to transfer Americans exposed to Ebola to Kenya for quarantine and treatment. The ruling halted the proposal before any transfers could occur.

The White House had confirmed it was building a quarantine and treatment facility in Kenya for Americans exposed to Ebola in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, rather than bringing them back to the United States. Some experts criticized this approach, arguing that preventing Americans from returning home could undermine treatment efforts. The US has previously established specialized facilities within its own borders to handle Ebola cases and exposures.

Politics

Trump administration shifts Ebola response to domestic protection over international aid

The Trump administration has adopted an inward-focused approach to the Ebola outbreak in Congo and Uganda, prioritizing domestic protection measures over international assistance efforts. The shift has drawn criticism fr...

8:00 AM ET

The Trump administration has adopted an inward-focused approach to the Ebola outbreak in Congo and Uganda, prioritizing domestic protection measures over international assistance efforts. The shift has drawn criticism from infectious disease experts who describe the policies as increasingly isolationist.

According to the World Health Organization, suspected Ebola cases have surpassed 1,000, with nearly 250 suspected deaths. The outbreak is growing rapidly, prompting countries around the world to mobilize funds, personnel, and resources to combat the spread.

The administration's response marks a departure from traditional US engagement in global health crises. Infectious disease experts have expressed alarm and disappointment at the approach, which focuses on keeping the virus out of the United States rather than addressing the outbreak at its source.

The strategy reflects broader isolationist tendencies in current US foreign policy. Previous administrations typically played a leading role in international health emergencies, providing both financial support and medical personnel to affected regions.

Public health experts have historically emphasized that containing outbreaks where they originate is more effective than border-focused measures alone. The 2014-2016 Ebola epidemic demonstrated the value of coordinated international response efforts.

The current outbreak in Central Africa has affected multiple countries, with cases confirmed in both Congo and Uganda. The WHO has been tracking the spread and coordinating response efforts among member nations.

The administration has not detailed specific domestic protection measures being implemented. The approach represents a significant policy choice about America's role in global health security and international disease response.

Politics

Trump's doctor declares president in excellent health after medical checkup

President Trump's physician released a medical report stating he remains fit to serve, though independent doctors have questioned visible symptoms.

12:17 AM ET

President Trump underwent his annual medical examination, with results released by the White House stating he is "fully fit" to carry out his duties as president.

The medical report concluded that the president remains in excellent health and is able to continue serving in office.

Politics

Former Attorney General Bondi testifies in Epstein investigation

Pam Bondi testified in the ongoing Epstein case as the current Justice Department opened a separate inquiry into E. Jean Carroll's civil cases.

A few minutes ago

Former Attorney General Pam Bondi testified before the House Oversight and Reform Committee regarding the Department of Justice's handling of Jeffrey Epstein files during her tenure. Bondi defended the department's process while acknowledging "redaction errors" in the files. She told lawmakers that she delegated oversight of the effort to Todd Blanche, her former deputy attorney general who is now serving as acting attorney general.

Democratic lawmakers noted that Bondi declined to answer questions about Donald Trump's involvement in the release of the files. The testimony came about a month after Trump ousted the previous attorney general.

Tech & Science

Trump administration proposes optional peer review, political screening of federal research grants

The Trump administration has proposed new rules that would allow federal agencies to cancel research grants at any time and make peer review optional for funding decisions. The changes would also give political staff aut...

8:00 AM ET

The Trump administration has proposed new rules that would allow federal agencies to cancel research grants at any time and make peer review optional for funding decisions. The changes would also give political staff authority to screen grants for certain topics.

Under the proposed regulations, agencies could terminate funding agreements without the traditional protections that have governed federal research grants. The rules represent a significant departure from longstanding practices in federal research funding.

Peer review, the process by which independent experts evaluate research proposals before funding decisions are made, would become optional rather than required under the new framework. This would allow agencies to bypass the traditional scientific vetting process that has been standard practice for decades.

The proposed rules would also establish a role for political appointees in screening grant applications. Staff could review proposals for topics that fall outside permitted areas of research, though the specific topics that would trigger such screening were not detailed in the available information.

The changes would affect how federal agencies distribute billions of dollars in research funding across universities, medical centers, and other institutions. Federal grants support work ranging from basic scientific research to medical studies and technology development.

The proposed regulations would apply broadly across federal agencies that distribute research funding. The changes would alter both the initial grant approval process and the terms under which agencies could end funding for ongoing projects.

Research institutions have traditionally operated under grant agreements that provide stability for multi-year projects. The ability to cancel grants at any time would eliminate those protections.

The shift away from mandatory peer review would remove a key quality control mechanism. Peer review has served as the primary method for ensuring that federal research dollars go to scientifically sound proposals evaluated by experts in relevant fields.

The proposed rules come as federal research funding faces broader scrutiny. The changes would give agencies greater discretion in funding decisions while reducing the role of independent scientific evaluation in determining which projects receive government support.

World

Colombia holds presidential election with left and far-right candidates leading

Colombian voters go to the polls with a leftist candidate leading in surveys and a far-right challenger who calls himself The Tiger gaining ground.

5:01 AM ET

Colombia's presidential election on Sunday pits a leftist frontrunner against a far-right outsider known as "The Tiger," who has narrowed the initial polling gap. The vote will show whether voters continue Latin America's recent shift toward left-wing governments or chart a different course.

The election takes place amid a resurgence of political violence tied to Colombia's decades-long armed conflict, involving the army, paramilitaries, and dissident groups. The competing candidates offer contradictory approaches to addressing this ongoing instability.

World

Hegseth proposes reduced public profile for US defense strategy in Asia

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth called for a quieter approach to US defense planning in Asia following President Trump's visit to China.

8:00 AM ET

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth addressed Asian allies at the Shangri-La Dialogue security summit in Singapore, calling for a more measured approach to communicating US defense strategy in the region. His remarks followed President Trump's recent visit to China.

Hegseth emphasized that the US is not retreating from its commitment to Asian allies, while pressing them to increase their own defense spending. He also highlighted the role of burden-sharing among partners and addressed concerns about China's activities in the region.

Tech & Science

DuckDuckGo sees increased traffic as users avoid Google's AI search features

The privacy-focused search engine has gained users following Google's AI integration.

Yesterday, 6:55 PM ET

DuckDuckGo has experienced a surge in installations and search traffic following Google's AI-focused overhaul of its search engine announced at a recent developer conference. The privacy-focused search alternative has attracted users seeking to avoid the prominent AI integration in Google's results.

The shift reflects growing user interest in search options that prioritize privacy and traditional search functionality over AI-generated answers. As Google doubles down on AI features, competitors like DuckDuckGo have capitalized on user concerns about the direction of mainstream search platforms.

Tech & Science

Nvidia, Microsoft, and Arm tease new N1X laptop processors ahead of tech conference

Three major tech companies posted coordinated messages about upcoming laptop chips.

Yesterday, 7:03 PM ET

Nvidia, Microsoft, and Arm are building anticipation for Nvidia's upcoming N1X laptop processors, which will be announced at Computex this weekend. The Windows and Nvidia GeForce accounts on X both posted "A new era of PC," with Arm following suit on social media.

Microsoft's Surface and Windows chief Pavan Davuluri teased new hardware coming for developers, sharing a mysterious image suggesting a curved display design. The coordinated announcements signal major developments in Arm-based PC technology.

U.S.

Primary election system draws criticism from lawmakers

Some members of Congress are speaking out against closed, single-party primary elections, saying the system limits voter choice.

5:00 AM ET

Lawmakers have criticized the closed primary election system used in many states. They argue that single-party primaries limit voter choice and encourage elected officials to prioritize party loyalty over broader representation.

The criticism focuses on how the primary system shapes the composition and behavior of Congress. Closed primaries restrict participation to registered party members, preventing independent and opposition-party voters from participating in candidate selection for the general election.

Business

Train fire at Penn Station injures five, disrupts rail service

A maintenance train caught fire near Penn Station in New York, injuring five people and causing major delays for commuters.

8:00 AM ET

An Amtrak maintenance train caught fire near Penn Station, injuring five people and disrupting rail service for commuters. ABC7 and ABC News reported the fire caused chaos during rush hour for Long Island Rail Road and NJ Transit passengers.

Amtrak service through Penn Station was suspended but later resumed, according to trains.com. PIX11 reported the train car fire caused significant delays. The fire occurred on a maintenance vehicle rather than a passenger train.

U.S.

Palace received Prince Andrew envoy emails six years ago

The Royal Household was given thousands of emails about Prince Andrew's financial dealings in 2020.

6:51 AM ET

The Royal Household received thousands of emails in 2020 detailing Prince Andrew's financial dealings through an envoy. The emails documented the former prince's business relationships and financial transactions.

The disclosure reveals the palace has held this detailed documentation about Andrew's financial matters for six years.

Politics

Schools limit technology use as concerns grow over student attention

Parents, educators and lawmakers are pushing schools to reduce classroom screen time amid concerns about attention, behavior and learning.

A few minutes ago

Parents, educators and lawmakers are pushing schools to curb classroom screen use. The movement stems from concerns about student attention, behavior and learning outcomes in technology-heavy educational environments.

At least 16 states, both Republican and Democratic, have introduced bills to limit classroom technology. School cellphone bans are expanding into broader efforts to establish guardrails around AI in education. Schools Beyond Screens, a nonprofit formed with fewer than a dozen parents in Los Angeles Unified School District last year, has grown as part of this movement.

Sports

Golden Knights to face Hurricanes in Stanley Cup Final

The Vegas Golden Knights and Carolina Hurricanes will meet in the Stanley Cup Final.

3:00 AM ET

The Vegas Golden Knights will face the Carolina Hurricanes in the Stanley Cup Final. The Hurricanes earned their spot by defeating the Montreal Canadiens, breaking through a years-long Eastern Conference final barrier that had frustrated the team since 2006.

Coach Rod Brind'Amour's Hurricanes will compete for the Stanley Cup for the first time in 20 years. The series will determine the 2026 championship.

Sports

Police investigate fan violence before Champions League final in Budapest

Budapest police made arrests and are reviewing footage after supporters fought before the Champions League final.

6:36 AM ET

Police in Budapest have arrested supporters and are reviewing CCTV footage following violent clashes before Saturday's Champions League final between Arsenal and Paris St-Germain. The incidents took place in the hours before the match in the Hungarian capital.

Authorities are using the video evidence to identify additional individuals involved in the fighting as their investigation continues.

Politics

UFC championship fight planned for White House lawn

The Ultimate Fighting Championship will stage a prime-time fight at the White House as part of America's 250th anniversary celebrations.

6:00 AM ET

The Ultimate Fighting Championship is bringing a fight event to the White House next month. The prime-time bout will take place on the White House lawn as part of the country's America 250 celebrations and to commemorate President Trump's 80th birthday.

Preparations have been underway for weeks ahead of the combat sports event. The president is expected to attend the widely discussed spectacle, which represents an unprecedented use of the White House grounds for professional mixed martial arts competition.

Entertainment

Mountain Lion Tranquilized and Removed from Santa Monica Neighborhood

Wildlife officials tracked and tranquilized a mountain lion in a residential Santa Monica area after it prompted safety warnings.

Yesterday, 10:36 PM ET

A mountain lion was tranquilized and removed from a residential area in Santa Monica. The animal's presence closed 14th Street for most of the day as wildlife officials worked to safely capture it.

Officials tracked the mountain lion through the Santa Monica neighborhood and issued warnings to residents. The sighting put the neighborhood on high alert before wildlife authorities successfully removed the animal.

Entertainment

Multiple Artists Drop Out of Trump-Linked Freedom 250 Concert Series

Performers including Martina McBride and Morris Day have canceled appearances at the Trump-backed concerts celebrating America's 250th anniversary.

1:14 AM ET

At least seven of the nine featured musical acts scheduled to perform at the Freedom 250 concert series have withdrawn from the event. The series, organized by the Trump administration to commemorate the United States' 250th anniversary, saw the departures announced within 48 hours of the initial lineup reveal.

Bret Michaels became the latest performer to exit, citing threats and a deteriorating atmosphere surrounding the event as reasons for his withdrawal. Other artists including Morris Day and Young MC have also pulled out of the concert series.

Tech & Science

Study finds pigeons use magnetic sensors in their livers for navigation

Research identifies the liver as a key organ in pigeon navigation abilities.

Yesterday, 6:01 PM ET

Pigeons navigate using magnetic sensors located in their livers, according to a new study. The research offers an explanation for how the birds find their way over long distances.

The discovery addresses a longstanding question about how homing pigeons sense Earth's magnetic field. The liver-based sensors allow pigeons to navigate even on cloudy days when visual cues are limited.

Tech & Science

Researchers warn AI-assisted coding may not improve code quality despite faster output

8:00 AM ET
Sports

Former Indiana quarterback placed 40 bets on Indiana football

Brendan Sorsby made at least 40 bets related to Indiana while playing quarterback for the Hoosiers.

Yesterday, 8:32 PM ET

Brendan Sorsby placed at least 40 bets on Indiana football during his time as a quarterback on the team's roster. Sorsby wagered nearly 90,000 dollars during his college career.

Texas Tech coach Joey McGuire has pushed for Sorsby's reinstatement. The revelations come as the NCAA continues to address gambling issues involving college athletes.

Sports

Aaron Ramsey eyes management career, cites Arteta as inspiration

Former Arsenal midfielder Aaron Ramsey says he aims to follow Mikel Arteta into coaching.

8:00 AM ET

Aaron Ramsey has identified Mikel Arteta as an inspiration as he pursues a future in football management. The pair were teammates during their time at Arsenal.

Ramsey is looking to follow in Arteta's footsteps after the manager's success with the Gunners.

Entertainment

Paul McCartney Reflects on Family Life During Beatlemania

The musician discussed how his family helped ground him during the Beatles' rise to international fame.

1:32 AM ET

Paul McCartney detailed how his family provided stability during the height of Beatlemania. The musician described a turning point during the Beatles' rise to fame when family connections became particularly important.

McCartney discussed how he navigated life under intense public scrutiny as the Beatles became a global phenomenon. His family helped him maintain perspective during the band's unprecedented success in the 1960s.

Entertainment

Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe Says Sewing Provided Escape in Iranian Prison

The former detainee told an audience that creativity offered a psychological exit when her freedom was restricted.

8:00 AM ET

Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe spoke about how sewing served as a lifeline during her imprisonment in Iran. She told an audience that creativity provided a quick psychological exit when her freedom was restricted.

Zaghari-Ratcliffe's comments highlighted how creative activities helped her cope with the mental challenges of detention. She described the practice as crucial to maintaining her mental well-being during confinement.

U.S.

Judge orders Trump's name removed from Kennedy Center

A federal judge has ordered the removal of Donald Trump's name from the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, ruling that the prestigious venue cannot be renamed without an act of Congress. US District J...

8:00 AM ET

A federal judge has ordered the removal of Donald Trump's name from the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, ruling that the prestigious venue cannot be renamed without an act of Congress.

US District Judge Christopher Cooper issued a 94-page opinion directing the Trump administration to remove all physical signage bearing Trump's name and eliminate any references to a "Trump Kennedy Center" from official materials within 14 days.

"The Kennedy Center's organic statute makes crystal clear that the Center is to be named for President Kennedy, and it cannot bear any other formal name or public memorial based on the Board's unilateral say-so," Cooper wrote. "Congress gave the Kennedy Center its name, and only Congress can change it."

The judge found that the Kennedy Center's board overstepped its legal authority by unilaterally renaming the facility after Trump. The ruling also temporarily blocked the center from closing for two years of renovations that Trump had proposed. Cooper criticized the board's decision to halt operations, saying it was based on insufficient information and appeared "ill-informed and seemingly preordained."

Shortly after the ruling, Trump posted on Truth Social that he would work with Congress on transferring ownership of the Kennedy Center. "I have instructed the Department of Commerce to make all necessary arrangements with Congress to allow a full and complete transfer of this Institution," Trump wrote. He also stated: "Unless I am free to do what I do better than anyone else, bring this Institution back, physically, financially, and artistically, I have no interest in continuing."

The lawsuit was brought by Ohio Democratic Representative Joyce Beatty, who serves on the Kennedy Center's board. "Today's ruling rightly affirms that this administration's efforts to rename and close the Center have no basis in law," Beatty said. "The Kennedy Center is an institution that belongs to the American people, not to Donald Trump."

Trump appointed himself chair of the Kennedy Center's board shortly after taking office, purging existing members and replacing them with his appointees. The board voted to add Trump's name to the center in December, sparking significant controversy.

The renaming effort prompted numerous artists and performing groups to cancel bookings in protest, including the Tony award-winning musical Hamilton. The National Symphony Orchestra's executive director left her position to work elsewhere, and Richard Grenell, a key Trump appointee driving the institutional overhaul, stepped down as president.

The Kennedy Center receives federal funding and operates as a nonprofit organization. It has served as the national cultural center and memorial to President John F. Kennedy since opening in 1971. The court's decision takes immediate effect, preventing any changes to the center's name or operations.

Sports

Liverpool sack manager Arne Slot after two seasons

Liverpool have terminated Arne Slot's contract following an end-of-season review of the club's disappointing title defence. The Dutch coach won a record-equalling 20th Premier League title in his first season at Anfield,...

8:00 AM ET

Liverpool have terminated Arne Slot's contract following an end-of-season review of the club's disappointing title defence. The Dutch coach won a record-equalling 20th Premier League title in his first season at Anfield, but the team's subsequent decline to fifth place this season led to his immediate departure.

Slot took over from Jürgen Klopp ahead of the 2024-25 campaign. His first year proved successful as he guided Liverpool to the league championship, but the following season brought considerable struggles. The club's ownership decided that change was necessary to move the team forward.

In a statement, Liverpool's ownership acknowledged the difficulty of the decision while praising Slot's contribution. They described his work ethic, diligence and expertise, noting that he had embraced responsibility from the moment he agreed to take the job. The statement also recognised his role in helping the club through one of its most difficult periods following the death of player Diogo Jota, highlighting the compassion and humanity he showed during that time.

However, the club concluded that "a different approach" was needed to address the team's trajectory. The ownership emphasised that Slot's departure was not a reflection of his talents but rather reflected their belief that change would benefit the club's future direction.

Slot's position had been questioned throughout a frustrating season. Supporters expressed their frustrations during matches, with boos audible after a 1-1 draw with Chelsea. The team's final match, another 1-1 draw against Brentford, ended without any on-pitch speeches from the manager despite presentations to Mohamed Salah and Andy Robertson.

Player-endorsed social media comments from Salah during the season suggested discontent with tactical changes from Klopp's established formula. These comments highlighted divisions between the playing squad and the manager's approach.

Liverpool's ownership stated that Slot leaves with their gratitude and the knowledge that he and his family will always be welcome at Anfield. They stressed that the decision to sack him reflected the need for a new direction rather than any diminishment of his work or respect for his abilities.

Andoni Iraola, who departed Bournemouth at the end of this season, is among the leading candidates to replace Slot as Liverpool's head coach. The club will now begin its search for a new manager to lead the team into the next campaign as they aim to recover from their disappointing season and challenge for titles once again.

Entertainment

Star Wars Editor Marcia Lucas Dies at 80

Marcia Lucas, the Oscar-winning editor of the original Star Wars film, died at her home in Rancho Mirage, California following a battle with metastatic cancer. She was 80. Lucasfilm posted a statement mourning her death...

8:00 AM ET

Marcia Lucas, the Oscar-winning editor of the original Star Wars film, died at her home in Rancho Mirage, California following a battle with metastatic cancer. She was 80.

Lucasfilm posted a statement mourning her death. Lucas was one of three editors who shared an Academy Award for their work on Star Wars in 1977. She was married to director George Lucas at the time of the film's production.

Beyond Star Wars, Lucas edited several iconic films of the 1970s, including Martin Scorsese's Taxi Driver. Her work on Star Wars helped shape the final cut of one of cinema's most influential films.

Lucasfilm described itself as deeply saddened by her passing in its official statement released Friday. Lucas and George Lucas later divorced, but her contributions to the Star Wars franchise remained a significant part of film history.

The editor's career spanned a transformative period in American cinema. Her work on Taxi Driver and Star Wars came during a creative renaissance in Hollywood filmmaking. She brought a distinctive editorial vision to both projects that helped define their final forms.

Lucas won her Academy Award alongside fellow editors Paul Hirsch and Richard Chew for Star Wars. The film's editing was crucial to its pacing and storytelling, helping turn George Lucas's space opera into a cultural phenomenon that would spawn multiple sequels and prequels over the following decades.

Her death marks the loss of a key figure from the original Star Wars production team. The film, released in 1977, revolutionized visual effects and blockbuster filmmaking while becoming one of the highest-grossing movies of all time.

U.S.

Trump meets advisers on Iran deal, no announcement made

President Trump met with advisers to make a final determination on an Iran agreement but did not announce a decision.

A few minutes ago

President Trump convened with his advisers to make a final determination on a potential agreement with Iran. No deal was announced following the meeting.

US officials had previously confirmed that the United States and Iran reached agreement on a framework for a deal. Trump's meeting was designed to solidify the American position on this framework before any formal announcement.

World

Four rescued from flooded Laos cave, two still missing

Rescue teams pulled four people from a flooded cave system in Laos after more than a week underground, but two remain unaccounted for.

5:50 AM ET

Four men have been rescued from a flooded cave in Laos where they became trapped while searching for gold. The group of seven villagers entered the narrow tunnels on May 20 before rising water blocked their exit. Rescuers successfully extracted four survivors after more than 10 days underground.

Two villagers remain missing inside the cave system. Rescue teams continue their search through the flooded passages, navigating muddy water, sharp rocks, and narrow tunnels as they work to locate the remaining men.

U.S.

Four villagers rescued from flooded Laos cave after 10 days

Rescuers freed four more men from a flooded cave system in Laos where seven villagers became trapped while searching for gold.

5:50 AM ET

Four men have been freed from a flooded cave system in Laos after 10 days trapped underground. They were part of a group of seven villagers who entered the narrow tunnels on May 20 while searching for gold. One person was rescued earlier in the operation, bringing the total freed to five.

Two villagers remain missing. Rescue teams have been navigating treacherous conditions, including muddy water, sharp rocks, and narrow passages, to locate them. The operation required draining water from the cave and managing collapse hazards.

Business

China expands use of digital yuan in lottery and government spending

China has broadened the applications of its digital currency to include lottery draws and fiscal spending, according to Reuters.

1:02 AM ET

China is expanding the footprint of its digital yuan into new areas including lottery draws and government fiscal spending, Reuters reported. The move represents a significant widening of the digital currency's use cases beyond initial pilot programs.

Devdiscourse described the expansion as ushering in a new era for global transactions, while The Japan Times reported China's actions as a competitive response to potential digital dollar dominance in global savings. Modern Diplomacy also covered the digital yuan push as part of China's broader financial technology strategy.

Tech & Science

SpaceX receives $6.45 billion in Space Force contracts before stock market debut

The contracts come as SpaceX prepares for its initial public offering.

Yesterday, 6:21 PM ET

SpaceX has received $6.45 billion in contracts from the Space Force ahead of its initial public offering. The awards represent a significant boost to the company's government business as it prepares to go public.

According to SpaceX's IPO filing, government contracts already accounted for one-fifth of the company's 2025 revenue. The new Space Force contracts will further strengthen this revenue stream as SpaceX transitions to being a publicly traded company.

Sports

José Mourinho returns to Real Madrid as manager

Real Madrid have appointed José Mourinho for a second spell as head coach.

1:46 AM ET

José Mourinho has signed a deal to return as Real Madrid manager for his second stint in charge of the Spanish club.

How Mourinho manages his relationship with Brazil forward Vinicius Junior will be one of the most closely watched aspects of his second spell at the club.

Entertainment

Arsenal Meets PSG in Champions League Final

Arsenal F.C. and Paris Saint-Germain F.C. compete for the UEFA Champions League trophy at Puskás Aréna in Budapest.

A few minutes ago

The 2026 UEFA Champions League Final takes place Saturday, May 30 at Puskás Aréna in Budapest, Hungary. Arsenal F.C. faces Paris Saint-Germain F.C. for the European Champion Clubs' Cup. The Killers will headline the pre-match kickoff show.

Manager Mikel Arteta confirmed that Dutch defender Jurrien Timber is fit to start after recovering from a groin injury that sidelined him for more than two months. Arsenal's players, including Leandro Trossard, Declan Rice, and Eberechi Eze, are looking ahead to competing for one of European soccer's most prestigious trophies.

Entertainment

Music Executive Clive Davis Hospitalized in New York

The 94-year-old music mogul was hospitalized following a respiratory issue.

Yesterday, 11:29 PM ET

Clive Davis was hospitalized in New York City on Friday evening. The 94-year-old music executive was admitted following a respiratory issue.

Davis has been a major figure in the music industry for decades, working with numerous artists and shaping popular music through his executive roles at various record labels.

World

Muslims across Middle East observe Eid amid war and shortages

Eid al-Adha celebrations were subdued across the Middle East as conflicts continued and food and fuel shortages affected the region.

5:02 AM ET

Muslims from Iran to Gaza observed Eid al-Adha with subdued celebrations as conflict continued across the region. The holiday observances were overshadowed by ongoing wars and widespread shortages of food and fuel that affected communities throughout the Middle East.

The combination of regional instability and resource scarcity fundamentally shaped how believers marked the religious festival this year.

U.S.

Liverpool fires head coach Arne Slot after two seasons

Liverpool has dismissed head coach Arne Slot following two seasons in charge of the club.

A few minutes ago

Liverpool have sacked Arne Slot following an end-of-season review of the club's disappointing title defence. Despite guiding the team to a record-equalling 20th Premier League title in his first season, Slot's second campaign proved difficult, ending with a fifth-place finish. He has departed with immediate effect.

Andoni Iraola, who recently left Bournemouth, is among the leading candidates to replace Slot at Anfield.

Business

China's biotech advances draw attention at oncology conference

Clinical trials conducted in China are gaining prominence at an international oncology gathering in Chicago as the country's biotechnology sector expands.

12:00 AM ET

Chinese clinical trials are generating significant attention at an international oncology conference in Chicago, underscoring the country's expanding influence in drug development. The visibility of China's research efforts at this major gathering reflects the rapid growth of its biotechnology sector in recent years.

The development has prompted concern among U.S. industry observers, who worry that American dominance in biotechnology may be declining as China accelerates its progress in drug development and clinical research capabilities.

Business

Replimune to resubmit cancer drug application after FDA talks

Replimune will ask the FDA to reconsider its melanoma drug for a third time after productive discussions with the agency.

Yesterday, 9:53 PM ET

Replimune announced it will resubmit its melanoma drug application to the Food and Drug Administration following what it described as productive talks with the agency. The drug has been rejected twice previously, according to The Wall Street Journal and CNBC.

The resubmission comes after FDA leadership changes, according to the Journal, which described White House intervention in the process. Yahoo Finance reported the company's stock jumped 80 percent on the news. Endpoints News reported the FDA is standing by its past rejections, though the agency agreed to a new review.

Tech & Science

Indian court ruling on Google's ad business draws support from company founders

A court decision prompted renewed criticism of how Google handles trademarked keywords.

Yesterday, 10:00 PM ET

Company founders have rallied behind an Indian court ruling that targets Google's advertising practices. The decision has reignited criticism of how Google handles trademarked keywords in its ad platform.

Legal experts believe the ruling could force Google and other platforms to fundamentally change their approach to trademarked terms. The decision may compel these companies to implement new policies governing how they allow advertisers to bid on branded keywords.

Sports

Alphonso Davies named to Canada World Cup squad

Bayern Munich defender Alphonso Davies has been included in Canada's World Cup roster.

2:08 AM ET

Canada head coach Jesse Marsch has named Bayern Munich defender Alphonso Davies to the national team's World Cup squad for this summer's tournament. Marsch has called it the best Canada squad ever assembled for a World Cup competition.

Davies, who plays as a defender for the German club, will be a key player in Canada's campaign.

Entertainment

Frankie Valli Cancels Rest of 2026 Tour Due to Health Issues

The 92-year-old singer announced he is canceling his remaining 2026 concert dates to focus on his health.

Yesterday, 8:36 PM ET

The 92-year-old legendary singer announced Friday that he is canceling his remaining concert dates for 2026 to focus on his health. Despite his longtime passion for performing, Valli decided it was time to prioritize his wellbeing.

Valli expressed his apologies to fans who had already purchased tickets to the canceled shows. The announcement marks a significant step for the artist, who has maintained an active touring schedule throughout his lengthy career.

Politics

Trump incorporates personal branding into America's 250th anniversary celebrations

President Trump has taken steps to incorporate his brand and likeness into the country's 250th birthday celebrations, including efforts to appear on commemorative currency.

6:00 AM ET

President Trump is celebrating America's 250th birthday by prominently featuring his image and brand in commemorative efforts. The approach includes hosting a UFC fight on the White House lawn and pursuing plans to place his face on a special $250 bill.

The strategy has generated controversy, marking a significant departure from how previous administrations have traditionally honored major American anniversaries. The U.S. Embassy in India demonstrated the global reach of these efforts, launching rickshaws in Delhi displaying "HAPPY BIRTHDAY AMERICA" alongside Trump's likeness.

Sports

White Sox beat Tigers 4-3 on Miguel Vargas walk-off home run

Miguel Vargas hit his first career walk-off home run to give the White Sox a victory in extra innings.

Yesterday, 10:37 PM ET

The Chicago White Sox defeated the Detroit Tigers 4-3 in 10 innings after Miguel Vargas hit a walk-off home run. The home run was the first walk-off hit of Vargas's career.

The game took place at a packed stadium on the South Side. The victory came after the White Sox lost star player Munetaka Murakami to a hamstring injury earlier in the contest.

Sports

North Carolina wins opening game of NCAA baseball regional

Fifth-seeded North Carolina defeated VCU in the first round of the Chapel Hill Regional.

Yesterday, 9:11 PM ET

The University of North Carolina baseball team won its opening game of the NCAA Regional tournament against VCU. North Carolina entered the tournament as the fifth overall seed in the national field.

Pitcher Lynch dominated in the victory for the Diamond Heels. The game was played in Chapel Hill as part of the NCAA Baseball Tournament regional round.

U.S.

Texas Senate race focuses on masculinity as Paxton attacks opponent

Republican Ken Paxton attacked Democratic nominee James Talarico over masculinity after winning the Texas Senate primary runoff.

5:00 AM ET

Soon after winning the Republican primary runoff, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton attacked Democratic nominee James Talarico, a state representative, as "too low-T for Texas." The comment puts questions about manhood at the center of the general election campaign.

Paxton's strategy elevates what it means to be a man as a central theme in the Senate race, making traditional masculine identity a focal point of the political contest.

U.S.

Myanmar's military leader makes first foreign trip as head of government

Min

8:00 AM ET

Myanmar's military leader Min Aung Hlaing is making his first foreign trip since taking the helm of the government, visiting India. The tour reflects the new administration's efforts to strengthen its regional political standing.

The visit occurs as Myanmar's government continues to manage an ongoing civil conflict marked by widespread violence. The trip signals an attempt to secure international engagement and support during a period of significant internal upheaval.

Politics

Lawmakers criticize closed primary system as limiting voter choice

Some members of Congress are speaking out against single-party primary elections, arguing they limit options and encourage party loyalty over constituent representation.

8:00 AM ET

Some lawmakers have begun speaking out against closed, single-party primary elections. They view the current primary system as part of a structure that limits voter choice in elections.

The critics argue that the system incentivizes elected officials to prioritize party loyalty over other considerations. The closed primary format restricts participation to registered party members, preventing independent and crossover voters from participating in candidate selection

Plain runs on reader support.

No ads. No investors. No agenda. Just a belief that clean news should be free and a real cost to keep it that way. If Plain is part of your day, consider buying us a coffee.