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British Prime Minister Keir Starmer appoints Christian Turner as new US ambassador, replacing Peter Mandelson who was removed due to Epstein connections. Turner, a seasoned diplomat, will strengthen UK-US ties, navigate US-Russia-Ukraine peace plan, and address global challenges.

Bulgarias Capital and Major Cities See Massive Protests Demanding Fair Elections and Independent Judiciary Amidst Political Instability and Eurozone Aspirations

American rapper Wiz Khalifa sentenced to nine months in Romanian jail for drug possession, following a performance where he allegedly smoked cannabis on stage. Prosecutors found over eighteen grams of cannabis, leading to a final conviction. Romanias strict drug laws resulted in the severe sentence, with extradition uncertain due to Khalifas US citizenship.

EU-Mercosur Trade Deal Postponed: Italian PM Seeks Domestic Support The long-awaited EU-Mercosur trade deal, set to be signed this Saturday, has been postponed until next month. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced the delay at an EU summit. The agreement, twenty-five years in the making, was pushed back due to Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Melonis request to reassure Italian farmers concerned about cheaper imports. Meloni seeks more time to build domestic support, highlighting the complex political considerations in international trade agreements. The situation remains fluid as leaders work towards a widely accepted pact.

Belgiums Prime Minister, Bart De Wever, expresses concerns over the EUs plan to use frozen Russian assets to fund Ukraine, fearing potential retaliation from Russia. The one hundred ninety-three billion euros in frozen assets represent a significant portion of Belgiums GDP, and the countrys national debt makes any financial repercussions a serious concern. Despite Belgiums reservations, Ukraine urgently needs the funds, and the EU is under pressure to find a solution that supports Ukraine without alienating Belgium.

EU leaders engage in intense negotiations over Ukraine aid package, with Russian assets funding proposal causing disputes. Despite challenges, progress is reported, and leaders prioritize Ukraine funding to avoid service cuts.

Britain Appoints Career Diplomat Christian Turner as New US Ambassador In a strategic move, Britain has named Christian Turner as its new ambassador to the United States. Turner, a seasoned diplomat, was initially set to become Britains representative to the UN. He takes over from Peter Mandelson, who left amidst controversy. Varun Chandra, the Prime Ministers business adviser, was initially favored for the role. However, Keir Starmers advocacy for an internal appointment led to Turners selection. This decision underscores a commitment to experienced diplomatic leadership, especially given the complex global political climate and ongoing trade discussions with the US. Turners extensive experience, including his tenure as political director at the Foreign Office and his service as first secretary at the British Embassy in Washington, makes him a strong choice for this crucial role.

Downing Street Cancels Afternoon Press Briefings, Sparking Journalist Outrage

In Rome, a revolutionary laser technique is restoring the Column of Marcus Aurelius, a 154-foot monument dating back to 180-193 AD. The column, featuring a spiraling relief of Emperor Marcus Aureliuss battles, has been covered in dust and grime for decades. The restoration, funded by the European recovery fund, is expected to conclude in June, with an 18-person team employing advanced methods to clean and repair the monument, including chemical wraps, sponges, and resin. The project also involves a unique vertical construction site, allowing restorers to work comfortably and view the figures, which increase in size higher up the column for better visibility.