Ethnic tensions in Northern Kosovo threaten to reignite violence as NATO issues warnings, while US criticism mounts over the production location of Trump's "God Bless the USA" Bibles.
In other news, the political world mourns the loss of Alex Salmond, the former Scottish First Minister and a key advocate for Scotland's independence, who has passed away at the age of 69 in Ohrid, North Macedonia. His efforts in leading the Scottish National Party and the 2014 independence referendum left a lasting impact, prompting tributes from UK political figures like Keir Starmer and Rishi Sunak.
Shifting focus to Northern Kosovo, ethnic tensions threaten to erupt into violence once again, as NATO warns of potential conflicts mirroring those from 2023. The region's 50,000 Serbs still refuse to recognize Kosovo's government, complicating EU-mediated talks between Kosovo and Serbia and straining relationships with international allies, including the US and EU.
In the United States, controversy surrounds
Donald Trump's "God Bless the USA" Bibles, criticized for being manufactured in China despite the former president's anti-China rhetoric. With almost 120,000 copies already shipped, generating significant revenue, questions arise over the ethical implications of their production.
Meanwhile, in Canada, a Jewish school in Toronto has become a target once more, experiencing its second gunfire attack this year amidst a worrisome surge in anti-Semitic incidents following the war in Gaza. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has voiced his concern, echoing the sharp increase in attacks reported nationwide, including similar incidents in Montreal.
Turning to the upcoming US elections, former President Barack Obama has called on Black men to actively participate, addressing fears of misogyny potentially impacting Vice President Kamala Harris's bid against
Donald Trump in crucial states. Harris's campaign intensifies efforts to engage Black male voters, emphasizing key issues like economic opportunities and social justice.
Finally, in Yemen, the UN and various NGOs are demanding the release of detained staff members accused by Houthi rebels of espionage—a charge staunchly denied by the UN. With 13 UN staff and over 50 NGO workers held since as early as 2021, the situation adds to the complex humanitarian challenges amid a conflict that saw some relief after a UN truce in April 2022.