Minister to retain final say on controversial projects under Labor’s long-awaited nature laws

The Liberals are criticizing the Albanese government for allegedly withholding Prime Minister's letters to ministers, claiming it reflects a culture of secrecy. This accusation comes after the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet rejected an opposition senator's Freedom of Information request, citing national security and cabinet solidarity. This situation raises concerns about transparency in government operations and the balance between security and public accountability, making it a significant issue in Australian politics.

In a significant move, allies of Ukraine gathered in London to form a 'coalition of the willing' aimed at removing Russian oil and gas from the global market. This initiative is crucial as it seeks to intensify pressure on Russia to halt its ongoing war in Ukraine, potentially reshaping energy dynamics and supporting Ukraine's sovereignty. The commitment from these nations reflects a united front against aggression and highlights the importance of energy independence in geopolitical stability.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer recently spoke with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky ahead of a meeting focused on strengthening support for Ukraine. Starmer expressed optimism about enhancing Ukraine's long-range weapons capabilities, highlighting the UK's commitment to assist in the ongoing conflict. This conversation is significant as it underscores the international effort to bolster Ukraine's defense amidst ongoing challenges, reflecting a united front against aggression.

In a concerning development, Australian scientists have detected signs of H5 avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, in elephant seals during a recent expedition to Heard Island. This discovery raises alarms about the potential spread of the virus and its impact on wildlife and public health. The situation is further complicated by the disappointment expressed by the author of the EPBC Act review regarding the Coalition's stance on environmental issues, highlighting ongoing tensions in Australian politics. As the nation grapples with these challenges, the implications for biodiversity and policy responses are significant.

Students at a high school in Serbia have taken a stand by blocking their campus for two weeks, joining a wave of protests against President Aleksandar Vucic's government. This is significant as it marks the first school to participate in the nationwide demonstrations, which have been fueled by growing concerns over democratic freedoms and rampant corruption. The government's response to regain control of the school highlights the escalating tensions in the country, as citizens demand accountability and change.

In a shocking incident, four thieves managed to break into the Louvre museum in Paris, the world's most-visited museum, and steal eight valuable items worth €88 million. This brazen theft not only raises concerns about security at such a prominent cultural institution but also highlights the ongoing issue of art crime, which can have lasting impacts on heritage and tourism.

Hadush Kebatu, a migrant sex offender, was arrested in north London just two days after being mistakenly released from an Essex jail. This incident raises serious concerns about the prison system's ability to manage offenders and ensure public safety, highlighting the potential risks posed by administrative errors.

In a significant diplomatic move, Thailand and Cambodia have signed an expanded ceasefire agreement in Malaysia, with US President Donald Trump in attendance. This agreement comes after Trump's economic pressure encouraged both nations to pause their border skirmishes. While this is a hopeful step towards lasting peace, experts like Adam Hancock from FRANCE 24 express skepticism about the durability of the agreement, given the history of breaches in previous ceasefires. This development is crucial as it highlights the ongoing efforts to stabilize a long-standing conflict in the region.

In the final group game of the Women's Cricket World Cup, New Zealand was all out for 168 runs, setting the stage for an exciting match against England. With players like Plimmer and Kerr showing promise, the game is heating up, especially with the intense 40-degree weather. This match is crucial as it determines the teams' standings in the tournament, making every run count and adding to the competitive spirit of women's cricket.

This matchday is packed with exciting football action, featuring key clashes like Hearts vs. Celtic and Arsenal hosting Crystal Palace. The anticipation builds as fans look forward to the iconic clásico between Real Madrid and Barcelona, a rivalry that never fails to deliver drama and excitement. These matches are not just games; they represent the passion and culture of football, drawing fans together and showcasing the talent of some of the best teams in the world.