EU on edge: why the bloc has no quick fix for China’s rare earth dominance

China just gave the world a rare peek behind the curtain of its advanced fighter jet program. During a state TV interview at a Shenyang Aircraft Corporation facility, two next-gen J-35 stealth fighters—painted in signature green primer—were casually visible in the background. While the segment focused on another model, the cameo appearance hints at progress in China's carrier-capable stealth aircraft ambitions.

Editor’s Note: This isn't just aviation nerds spotting a new jet—it's a deliberate, low-key flex by China. Showing these fifth-gen fighters in production suggests they're moving beyond prototypes and toward operational deployment. For regional powers and rivals like the U.S., it's a quiet reminder that China's closing the gap in advanced air combat capabilities, especially for carrier operations. The green paint? That’s the tell—it means they’re still in testing, but getting closer to frontline service.

China is gearing up to flaunt its AI advancements and strategic vision at a major conference in Shanghai, highlighting everything from cutting-edge products to intelligent robots. The event underscores the country's push to compete with the U.S. in the global AI race, featuring thousands of innovations, including dozens of large language models and AI-powered devices.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just another tech conference—it’s a signal of China’s ambition to lead in AI, a field that could reshape economies and global power dynamics. With the U.S. and China locked in a tech rivalry, events like this offer a glimpse into who’s pulling ahead in innovation—and how they plan to wield it.

In a grim juxtaposition of events, the EU announced a deal with Israel to expand humanitarian aid access to Gaza—even as local authorities reported at least 50 Palestinian deaths, including children, in ongoing Israeli military operations. While the aid agreement offers a sliver of hope for a besieged population, the escalating violence underscores how dire the situation remains after nearly two years of war.

Editor’s Note: This story captures the brutal duality of Gaza’s reality: diplomatic efforts to ease suffering are happening alongside relentless bloodshed. The EU’s deal might bring more food or medicine, but it’s a Band-Aid on a crisis that keeps worsening. For readers, it’s a reminder that headlines about "progress" often mask deeper, unresolved tragedies—and that civilians, especially kids, keep paying the price.

A new intelligence report is sounding the alarm about Iran's growing and erratic threat to the UK. The assessment highlights a range of risks, from cyberattacks to espionage, suggesting the situation is becoming harder to predict and manage.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just another geopolitical warning—it’s a heads-up that Iran’s activities could directly impact the UK in ways that aren’t easy to anticipate. Whether it’s digital threats or covert operations, the report suggests the UK needs to stay sharp. For everyday readers, it’s a reminder that global tensions aren’t just distant headlines; they can ripple into daily life through disrupted services or heightened security measures.

Brace yourselves—this weekend is set to sizzle as the UK heatwave hits its peak, with temperatures climbing to a sweltering 34°C. Some areas are already baking, and the scorching conditions might stick around into next week.

Editor’s Note: Heatwaves aren’t just uncomfortable—they can be dangerous, especially for vulnerable groups like the elderly or those with health conditions. This story matters because it’s a heads-up to stay cool, hydrated, and check on neighbors who might struggle in the heat. Plus, it’s a reminder of how climate change is making these extreme weather events more frequent and intense.