Mali unrest, North Korean war rhetoric and an Indonesia acid attack highlight intensifying conflicts and echoes of past authoritarian violence.
Trump-era legal and immigration fights converge with AI bioweapon fears, entrenched poverty and renewed worries over everyday public safety.
UAE’s OPEC break and Iran tensions drive oil and food prices higher, while China loosens housing rules to prop up growth.
Octopus research reshapes ideas of intelligence and animal welfare even as AI quietly drives a powerful boom in online advertising.
Alternative, family-style ‘reparenting’ programs raise questions about new models for treating addiction and childhood trauma.
Star-driven sequels and revivals share space with a fragile Venice Biennale, revealing art’s mix of commerce, risk and improvisation.
Playoff drama, a record-breaking teen and backlash to Trump’s FIFA honor show sport’s tensions between glory, scrutiny and politics.