Beijing’s top official in Hong Kong says newly released traditional Chinese editions of three books on President Xi Jinping’s thoughts should act as an "action guide" for locals to support Hong Kong and national development. Hong Kong leader John Lee echoed this, stating the books will help residents better grasp Xi’s ideas on education, culture, and other key areas.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just about books—it’s a signal of Beijing’s ongoing push to align Hong Kong more closely with mainland ideology. While framed as educational tools, the messaging underscores the central government’s expectation for loyalty and ideological unity. For Hongkongers, it’s another reminder of the shifting cultural and political landscape post-2019 protests.

Donald Trump brushed off the ongoing inquiry into Jeffrey Epstein’s crimes, calling it "boring" and suggesting only "bad people" care about it. While he claimed to support releasing "credible" files, his comments seem aimed at quieting conspiracy theories swirling among his MAGA base, some of whom suspect his administration is shielding powerful figures—including Trump himself—from scrutiny.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just about Epstein—it’s about trust. Trump’s dismissal of the inquiry fuels suspicions that the wealthy and connected are being protected, and his vague stance on transparency leaves room for more speculation. For his critics, it’s another red flag; for his supporters, it might deepen distrust in the system. Either way, it keeps the Epstein saga politically explosive.

President Trump weighed in on the Jeffrey Epstein saga, suggesting the U.S. attorney general should disclose any "credible" information about the case. He also dismissed conspiracy theories surrounding Epstein—a convicted sex offender with ties to powerful figures—by saying only "really bad people" push such narratives.

Editor’s Note: Trump's comments add another layer to the ongoing Epstein fallout, which has fueled speculation about elite connections. By calling for transparency while dismissing theories, he's threading a needle—acknowledging public interest without endorsing wild speculation. It keeps the story alive while deflecting potential political landmines.

Cuba's economy minister, Marta Elena Feitó-Cabrera, stepped down after claiming the country has no beggars—just people rummaging through trash by choice to earn "easy money." The tone-deaf remark sparked backlash in a nation grappling with severe shortages and economic crisis.

Editor’s Note: This isn't just about a minister putting her foot in her mouth. It highlights the growing disconnect between Cuba's leadership and ordinary citizens suffering through food scarcity, inflation, and blackouts. When officials dismiss desperation as laziness, it fuels public frustration—and resignations like this one signal deeper cracks in the government's credibility.

Thailand's former prime minister, Thaksin Shinawatra, is back in the spotlight—this time in court. He's being tried behind closed doors for allegedly insulting the monarchy, a serious crime under Thailand's strict lese majeste laws. If convicted, he could spend 15 years in prison.

Editor’s Note: This isn't just about one politician—it's a high-stakes moment for Thailand. Thaksin is a polarizing figure, and this case could reignite tensions between his supporters and opponents. The monarchy is a deeply sensitive topic in Thailand, so how this trial unfolds could have major political and social ripple effects.

Thailand's former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, a polarizing political heavyweight, is now staring down a potential 15-year prison sentence over allegations of defaming the monarchy—a serious charge in a country where royal insult laws are fiercely enforced. This comes hot on the heels of his daughter Paetongtarn’s abrupt suspension as prime minister, adding fuel to the long-simmering political tensions surrounding the Shinawatra family.

Editor’s Note: Thaksin’s legal troubles aren’t just about one man—they’re a flashpoint in Thailand’s deeply divided political landscape. His case could reignite old conflicts between the establishment and his populist faction, with ripple effects for stability in a country where power struggles often play out through courts and coups. For ordinary Thais, it’s another chapter in a saga that’s shaped their politics for decades.

President Trump is facing heat as the Epstein scandal refuses to fade, with supporters and critics alike demanding answers about his past associations with the disgraced financier. The so-called "Epstein files" keep fueling speculation, making it tough for Trump to shake off the controversy.

Editor’s Note: This isn't just about Epstein—it's about trust and accountability at the highest levels of power. If Trump can't convincingly distance himself from the scandal, it could erode his credibility with both his base and the broader public. In an election year, that's a problem he doesn't need.

Former President Donald Trump has publicly stated that any "credible" files related to Jeffrey Epstein—the financier accused of sex trafficking—should be released. This comes as some of his MAGA supporters express frustration over perceived secrecy. Trump’s remarks seem to address growing pressure from his base, though it’s unclear what specific documents he’s referring to or if their release is imminent.

Editor’s Note: Epstein’s case has long been a lightning rod for conspiracy theories and public outrage, so any movement toward transparency—or even just the suggestion of it—is bound to stir reactions. Trump’s comments could be an attempt to placate his supporters, deflect scrutiny, or genuinely push for more disclosure. Either way, it keeps the Epstein saga in the headlines, which is always a volatile mix of politics, power, and scandal.

Japan’s ruling party is taking a risky bet by putting Shinjiro Koizumi, a young reformist dubbed the "rice minister," front and center in their election strategy. His push for agricultural reforms—like cutting rice subsidies—is alienating the party’s traditional rural base, who’ve long been their most loyal voters. It’s a high-stakes move that could either modernize Japan’s farming sector or backfire spectacularly.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just about rice—it’s a showdown between Japan’s old guard and new reformers. If Koizumi’s policies flop, the ruling party could lose its grip on rural voters, shaking up the country’s political landscape. But if he succeeds, it might signal a shift toward much-needed economic updates in aging industries. Either way, farmers aren’t happy, and that’s a big deal in Japanese politics.