Year: 2026

Two-time defending champion Carlos Alcaraz has announced he will not defend his French Open title due to a right wrist injury. Alcaraz also withdrew from the Italian Open, following setbacks from an injury sustained at the Barcelona Open earlier this month.

On April 26, 2026, Ukraine marks 40 years since the Chernobyl disaster, the worst nuclear accident in history. The site, now a ghost town, continues to resonate with the trauma of its past. Visit to learn about its lasting impact and the ongoing effects of radiation.

The European Union and United States firmed their collaboration on critical minerals, signing a Memorandum of Understanding to enhance supply chain diversity and bolster national security. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasised the importance of a broadening mineral base to mitigate risks associated with over-concentration in specific regions.

Spanish bullfighter Morante de la Puebla sustained severe injuries during a fight at the Real Maestranza bullring in Seville. Gored by the bull Clandestino, he suffered a 10cm rectal tear. Morante is expected to remain in hospital for at least a week.

EU leaders have committed to enhancing security and economic ties with Middle East partners while advocating for a diplomatic resolution to the Iran war. Talks in Cyprus included discussions on rising energy prices due to the conflict and the potential formation of a multinational force to secure the Strait of Hormuz.

The world’s top condom manufacturer is increasing prices by up to 30% due to heightened demand linked to the Iran war, says owner Goh Miah Kiat. As instability grows, more people are turning to contraception to prevent pregnancy. Read more about this shift in Metro’s report.

MPs in the House of Commons have supported legalising euthanasia for terminally ill adults with less than six months to live, who can clearly express a wish to die. This historic vote took place last June, marking a significant step in the ongoing debate surrounding assisted dying.

UK MORNING BRIEFING

This morning, Londoners can expect lasting Tube strike disruptions, despite strikes concluding at midday. Cycling has surged, leading to an increase in road incidents this week, highlighting the changing commuting landscape in the UK.

Ernie Dosio, a millionaire US big game hunter, was killed by elephants while hunting in Gabon. The 75-year-old was ambushed during a £30,000 stalk for a yellow backed duiker. His body will be repatriated to Lodi, California, by the US Embassy in Gabon.

A senior Swedish diplomat, charged with unauthorised possession of classified documents, allegedly jeopardised national security by taking sensitive information to his residence. Prosecutors stated that while the diplomat accessed the data through his official duties, he acted without intent to harm Sweden’s interests.