European defence spending surged by 14% in 2025, totalling €739 billion, with Germany becoming the largest investor after increasing its budget by 24% to €97 billion. This rise comes amid US pressure for NATO members to meet 5% GDP targets by 2035, marking the highest growth since the 1950s.

UK MORNING BRIEFING

A tragic incident in Lambeth resulted in the death of a young cyclist following a collision with a lorry yesterday. Authorities are investigating, and a man in his 50s has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving.

Didier Gaspard Owen Maximilien has been charged with mischief and public nuisance in Singapore after a viral stunt involving a vending machine. He faces two years in prison and fines. Maximilien’s court case is set for May 22, following his temporary allowance to leave for a school trip.

Hungarian Prime Minister-elect Péter Magyar indicated that EU funds could soon be released to Hungary following productive talks with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. Their discussions addressed unlocking billions in frozen funding, necessary for economic support, amid a looming August deadline.

Hakima Boukerouis, identified over 20 years after her murder in France, had been found in a rainwater barrel in 2005. Her ex-husband has been arrested on suspicion of ordering her killing. Interpol’s Operation Identify Me led to this breakthrough.

Italy has filed to be a civil party in the criminal proceedings regarding a fire at a Swiss bar that killed 41 people, including six Italians. The claim is driven by resources provided for assistance to the victims, highlighting serious safety lapses at the establishment.

Tonight features exciting matches in the Europa League, UEFA Conference League, Saudi Arabian Premier League, and CONMEBOL Libertadores. Europa League…

Over 1.2 million people in Lebanon are projected to face acute hunger this year, exacerbated by ongoing conflict and economic pressures, according to a UN-backed report from the FAO and WFP. This marks a drastic rise in food insecurity since the war escalated in March.

Loud music from parade floats damaged several antiques at the Chaiyaphum Ancient Textile Museum in Thailand. Owner Dr Komkrich Ritkhachorn reported that the noise from around 100 trucks caused severe damage during the Bai Sri Boon celebration. Inspectors visited on April 24 to assess the situation.

The Socialists’ turmoil has strained relations with their far-left coalition partner Sumar and various fringe and regional separatist parties, whose backing is crucial for legislative approval. This internal discord threatens the stability and effectiveness of the current government.