Sumo wrestling at the Royal Albert Hall – picture essay

Donald Trump recently claimed that no other U.S. president has ever ended a war, a statement that invites scrutiny. Historical context reveals that former presidents like Franklin D. Roosevelt and Jimmy Carter played pivotal roles in peace negotiations, notably between Russia and Japan, and Israel and Egypt. This discussion is significant as it highlights the complexities of presidential legacies in foreign policy and the ongoing debate about what it truly means to end a war.

Sanae Takaichi is poised to make history as Japan's first female prime minister following a coalition agreement between her Liberal Democratic Party and the rightwing Nippon Ishin. This significant political development not only highlights Takaichi's rising influence in Japanese politics but also marks a potential shift towards more inclusive leadership in a country where female representation has been limited. As the nation watches closely, her leadership could inspire future generations of women in politics.

Japan's ruling party has successfully formed a new coalition, which is a significant step towards its leader, Takaichi, potentially becoming the next prime minister. This development is important as it could lead to new policies and governance strategies that may impact the country's future.

Labour MPs are pushing back against plans by the housing secretary and the London mayor to cut affordable housing quotas in the city. They argue that reducing these quotas could undermine efforts to provide necessary housing for those in need, especially as the capital faces a housing crisis. This debate is crucial as it highlights the tension between increasing homebuilding and ensuring that affordable options remain available for residents.

London is facing a significant housing crisis as construction activity declines, raising concerns about the future of affordable housing. Mayor Sadiq Khan is under pressure after a recent report highlighted the severity of the issue, leading to alarm in both City Hall and Whitehall. The situation is critical as the city grapples with the balance between necessary building initiatives and the potential fallout from extreme measures. This matters because the availability of affordable housing is essential for the city's residents and its overall economic health.

Japan is gearing up for a crucial vote to select a new prime minister, with the Liberal Democratic Party's Sanae Takaichi aiming to become the country's first female leader. This election is significant as it reflects the current political uncertainty and the need for coalition-building among opposition parties. Takaichi's success could mark a historic moment for Japan, potentially reshaping its political landscape.

In a bold move for animal rights, protesters gathered outside a London aquarium to demand the release of penguins they claim are trapped in a basement. Musician and eco-campaigner Feargal Sharkey challenged the company's boss to experience life as the penguins do, highlighting the plight of these animals and sparking a conversation about their welfare. This demonstration not only raises awareness about the conditions of captive wildlife but also encourages a broader dialogue on ethical treatment in attractions.

A new trend in London is bringing people together through the unique concept of scream clubs, where participants gather to release pent-up energy and relieve stress in a fun, social environment. This phenomenon, often attracting mostly young individuals, allows them to express their emotions collectively, creating a sense of community and support. As the world grapples with increasing stress levels, these scream sessions offer a refreshing outlet, highlighting the importance of mental well-being and the need for innovative ways to cope with life's pressures.

Germany's recent push for fossil fuel projects in the Wadden Sea nature reserve has sparked outrage among locals and environmental activists. As the country shifts its focus away from renewable energy, concerns are growing about the impact on climate targets and local ecosystems. This situation highlights the tension between energy needs and environmental preservation, raising important questions about Germany's commitment to sustainability.

In a significant development in UK politics, a Home Office minister is set to respond to an urgent question from shadow home secretary Chris Philp regarding the troubling China spy case. This issue has sparked outrage, particularly from the family of Virginia Giuffre, who feel deeply affected by the implications of the case. The public's concern over national security and foreign interference is palpable, making this discussion crucial for understanding the government's stance and future actions.

A significant outage of Amazon Web Services has disrupted access to popular platforms like Fortnite, Roblox, and Snapchat, affecting millions of users. With reports exceeding 6.5 million, this incident highlights the vulnerability of online services that many rely on daily. The impact on businesses and consumers alike raises concerns about the reliability of cloud services, making it a crucial topic for discussion in the tech community.

In a heartfelt meeting, the King connected with the brave survivors of a recent synagogue attack, expressing his sadness over the tragic event. This encounter highlights the resilience of the community and the importance of support during difficult times, reminding us all of the strength found in unity and compassion.

The Kremlin has announced that Hungary will host the next summit between Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump, as explained by spokesman Dmitry Peskov. This decision is significant as it highlights Hungary's role in international diplomacy and the ongoing relationship between Russia and the United States. The choice of venue may also reflect strategic interests and the desire for a neutral ground for discussions.

An aide to Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky has recommended meditation and stress management techniques to help citizens cope with the ongoing blackouts affecting the country. This advice comes as many Ukrainians face challenges due to energy shortages, and the suggestion to meditate highlights the importance of mental well-being during tough times. By promoting mindfulness practices, the aide aims to provide a sense of calm and resilience, encouraging people to find inner peace amidst the chaos.