Trump blasts 'nasty' chicken gibe about his tariff reversals

BBC US • May 28, 2025 • Us

President Trump reacted to a Wall Street term, "Taco", suggesting he frequently backs down from tariff threats. He referred to the reporter's question as "nasty" and stated his actions are part of "negotiations."

Key Facts:

• "Taco" stands for "Trump Always Chickens Out" and is used by Wall Street traders.
• The term refers to Trump's tendency to threaten tariffs but then withdraw or reduce them.
• A reporter brought up this term during a press encounter with President Trump.
• Trump described the reporter's question about this term as "nasty."
• President Trump said that reversing tariffs is part of his negotiation strategy.

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BBC US

Students say they 'regret' applying to US schools after visa changes

BBC US • May 28, 2025 • Us

The Trump administration has paused US student visa appointments, causing concern among international students. Many students are uncertain about studying in the US due to possible delays and increased visa vetting. Some students, feeling unsure about future opportunities, regret applying to US schools.

Key Facts:

• The US government has paused student visa appointments temporarily.
• The pause is part of increased checks on social media for visa applicants.
• Students from around the world are worried about the uncertainty this causes.
• US President Donald Trump has accused Harvard of not combating antisemitism and tried to ban them from enrolling international students, but a judge has temporarily stopped this move.
• The number of international students in the US is over 1.1 million from more than 210 countries.
• International students often pay higher tuition fees, which are important for university budgets.
• Processing delays are making students like Ainul Hussein from India worry about losing scholarships.
• Students from other countries, like the UK, are also facing concerns over their ability to study in the US.

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BBC US

Woods' son Charlie wins junior event in Florida

BBC US • May 28, 2025 • Us

Charlie Woods, the son of famous golfer Tiger Woods, won his first American Junior Golf Association (AJGA) event. He claimed victory at the Team TaylorMade Invitational in Florida, finishing with a score of 15 under par.

Key Facts:

• Charlie Woods won his first AJGA event at 16 years old.
• He secured a three-shot lead at the Team TaylorMade Invitational in Florida.
• This was Charlie's fifth time playing in an AJGA event.
• He finished with a score of six-under-par 66, making him the top player on the leaderboard.
• Charlie started the final round one shot behind the leader, Luke Colton.
• His previous best result in AJGA was 25th place at another tournament in March.
• Charlie and his father, Tiger Woods, have competed together in the PNC Championship several times.
• Tiger Woods is a well-known golfer with 15 major wins but is currently recovering from surgery.

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BBC US

Carney says he wants Canada to join major European defence plan

BBC US • May 28, 2025 • Us

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed interest in joining a European defense plan called ReArm Europe by July 1, aiming to reduce Canada’s reliance on the US for defense support. Canada’s government is also considering joining a missile defense system proposed by the US amidst increasing global military threats.

Key Facts:

• Prime Minister Mark Carney wants Canada to join ReArm Europe to increase defense spending in Europe.
• Canada currently spends 75% of its defense budget in the US, which Carney says is too much reliance.
• Canada is responding to global threats, including tensions with Russia and China.
• The Canadian defense minister highlighted the need to strengthen military presence, especially in the Arctic region.
• A recent government speech mentioned plans to rebuild and reinvest in Canada's military.
• NATO is expecting member countries, including Canada, to increase their defense budgets to 5% of GDP.
• Discussions are ongoing between Canada and the US regarding cooperation in a missile defense system named Golden Dome.
• There have been calls for Canada to boost its defense spending and buy military technology from local companies.

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BBC US

Mars phases out controversial colour additive in Skittles

BBC US • May 28, 2025 • Us

Mars, the company that makes Skittles, has stopped using the color additive titanium dioxide in its US Skittles. This ingredient was banned in the European Union last year due to possible health risks. The decision follows criticism and the ingredient remains legal in several countries, including the US.

Key Facts:

• Mars stopped using titanium dioxide in US Skittles at the end of last year.
• Titanium dioxide was banned in the European Union in 2022 over possible health concerns.
• This decision comes after criticism about the safety of titanium dioxide in candy.
• The ingredient is still allowed in countries like the US, UK, Canada, and New Zealand.
• California attempted to ban titanium dioxide in 2023, but the effort failed.
• Mars has not stated if this change affects Skittles sold outside the US.
• Mars emphasizes that all their products meet global safety standards.
• The Environmental Working Group has raised concerns and urged action on food ingredients like titanium dioxide.

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BBC US

Ostriches facing cull at Canada farm find unexpected allies

BBC US • May 28, 2025 • Us

An ostrich farm in British Columbia, Canada, is trying to stop 400 ostriches from being culled due to avian flu concerns. Despite efforts by U.S. health officials and others to save the birds, a Canadian court upheld the decision to cull them to prevent virus spread.

Key Facts:

• An ostrich farm in British Columbia faces the culling of 400 ostriches due to avian flu.
• The farm had previous cases of avian flu in December and January.
• A Canadian court upheld the culling decision to prevent the virus from spreading or mutating.
• U.S. health officials Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Dr. Mehmet Oz have shown support to save the birds.
• Kennedy proposed studying the birds for antibodies instead of culling them.
• Dr. Oz offered to relocate the ostriches to his ranch in Florida, but the farm declined.
• The farm raises ostriches for meat, eggs, and research on antibodies.
• About 14.5 million birds in Canada have been affected by the avian flu virus outbreak.

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BBC US

Telegram announces partnership with Musk's xAI

BBC US • May 28, 2025 • Us

Telegram has partnered with Elon Musk's AI company, xAI, to bring an AI assistant called Grok to its users. The deal, lasting one year, involves Telegram receiving $300 million in cash and equity and sharing revenue from xAI subscriptions sold on Telegram.

Key Facts:

• Telegram is working with Elon Musk's xAI to integrate the Grok AI assistant.
• The partnership will last for one year.
• Telegram will receive $300 million in cash and equity from xAI.
• Telegram will also get 50% of revenue from xAI subscriptions sold on its platform.
• This collaboration follows a similar move by Meta’s WhatsApp to include an AI service.
• Critics have previously accused Telegram of not moderating its platform well enough to prevent crime.
• Elon Musk founded xAI and aims to make it a competitor to other AI firms like OpenAI.
• Musk also acquired the social media platform formerly known as Twitter, now called X, as part of his AI ambitions.

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BBC US

Diddy kidnapped ex-aide in plot to kill Kid Cudi, trial hears

BBC US • May 28, 2025 • Us

Former employee Capricorn Clark testified in court that Sean "Diddy" Combs kidnapped her and attempted to break into rapper Kid Cudi's home with plans to harm him. Diddy faces charges of racketeering and sex trafficking. Kid Cudi has testified in the trial as well, describing incidents that included damage to his property.

Key Facts:

• Capricorn Clark worked for Diddy for over ten years and testified against him in court.
• Clark claimed that in 2011, Diddy forced her at gunpoint to drive to Kid Cudi's home.
• Diddy allegedly intended to harm Kid Cudi because of his relationship with Diddy’s ex-girlfriend, Cassie Ventura.
• Kid Cudi testified, mentioning damage to his home and car, which he believes Diddy caused.
• Diddy has been charged with racketeering, sex trafficking, and related offenses.
• Diddy could face life in prison if found guilty of the federal charges.
• During cross-examination, Clark denied that she went with Diddy voluntarily.
• Clark mentioned working conditions and threats from Diddy during her employment.

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BBC US

Moment SpaceX Starship spins out of control in test flight

BBC US • May 28, 2025 • Us

SpaceX launched its ninth Starship test flight in Texas, but the rocket faced problems when a booster exploded, leading to fuel leaks and loss of control. This incident resulted in the rocket spinning uncontrollably as it tried to re-enter the atmosphere.

Key Facts:

• SpaceX launched its ninth Starship test flight from Texas.
• A booster on the rocket exploded shortly before the planned splashdown.
• The explosion caused fuel leaks.
• The rocket began to spin uncontrollably due to these leaks.
• SpaceX's team lost control of the rocket during atmospheric re-entry.
• An earlier test flight in March also ended with an explosion shortly after launch.

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BBC US

US halts student visa appointments and plans expanded social media vetting

BBC US • May 28, 2025 • Us

The U.S. government has paused the scheduling of student visa appointments as it plans to increase social media checks for applicants. The pause is part of broader changes by President Trump's administration to tighten visa vetting processes, specifically for student and foreign exchange visas.

Key Facts:

• The U.S. has stopped setting up new appointments for student visas at its embassies.
• Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated this pause is temporary until new instructions are given.
• There will be more rigorous social media checks for student and foreign exchange visa applicants.
• Existing visa appointments remain in place and will continue as scheduled.
• The vetting changes are linked to President Trump's criticism of U.S. colleges, which he claims are biased and allow inappropriate activities.
• The U.S. State Department emphasizes the importance of thoroughly vetting individuals entering the country.
• The Trump administration has also taken steps affecting funding and visa policies for universities, but some actions have been blocked by courts.
• Harvard University has faced specific restrictions, impacting its ability to enroll international students.

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BBC US

US Olympic gymnastics legend Mary Lou Retton arrested for drink driving

BBC US • May 27, 2025 • Us

Mary Lou Retton, a famous US Olympic gymnast, was arrested in West Virginia for allegedly driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. She was released after paying a bond and has not yet gotten a court date. Retton became well-known in 1984 when she became the first American woman to win the all-around gymnastics gold medal at the Olympics.

Key Facts:

• Mary Lou Retton was arrested in Fairmount, West Virginia, on May 17.
• She faces charges of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Retton was released the same day after paying a $1,500 bond.
• She refused to take a breathalyzer or blood test but allegedly failed a sobriety test.
• Police reported finding a container of wine in her car and said she smelled of alcohol.
• Retton became famous for winning a gold medal in gymnastics at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics.
• In 2022, she was hospitalized with a rare pneumonia and was in intensive care.
• Retton faced financial struggles post-divorce and during the Covid-19 pandemic, leading to a fundraising effort for her medical bills.

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BBC US

Key highlights from the King's speech in Canada

BBC US • May 27, 2025 • Us

King Charles III visited Canada for the first time as king in 2025, delivering a Speech from the Throne in Ottawa, the first such event since Queen Elizabeth II did the same in 1977. His visit emphasized the continuing importance of the monarchy in Canada and received wide national attention.

Key Facts:

• King Charles III made his first visit to Canada as king in 2025.
• He delivered the Speech from the Throne in Ottawa.
• This was the first time since 1977, when Queen Elizabeth II gave the Speech.
• The visit highlighted the ongoing role of the monarchy in Canada.
• The event had significant symbolic and political meanings for Canadians.

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BBC US

Six highlights from the AMAs - from J. Lo's kiss to Billie Eilish's wins

BBC US • May 27, 2025 • Us

The American Music Awards in Las Vegas featured big wins for Billie Eilish, who collected seven awards, including artist of the year, although she was not present as she was touring in Europe. Eminem and Beyoncé also won awards but did not attend. The event was hosted by Jennifer Lopez and included performances by several artists, while Sir Rod Stewart received a lifetime achievement award and Janet Jackson was honored as an icon.

Key Facts:

• Billie Eilish won seven awards, including artist and album of the year, but was touring in Europe and not at the event.
• Eminem and Beyoncé also won awards but did not attend.
• Jennifer Lopez hosted the event and performed a medley of hits.
• Sir Rod Stewart received a lifetime achievement award and was surprised by his children's presence.
• Shaboozey's reaction to a statement about the Carter Family went viral on social media.
• Janet Jackson received an icon award and performed some of her well-known songs.

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BBC US

North Korea says US 'Golden Dome' risks 'space nuclear war'

BBC US • May 27, 2025 • Us

North Korea criticized the US's plan for a missile defense system called "Golden Dome," claiming it could lead to nuclear conflict in space. The system aims to protect against advanced missile threats, and North Korea, along with China, opposes the plan, fearing it could upset global security.

Key Facts:

• North Korea criticized the US missile defense system called "Golden Dome."
• The system aims to defend against advanced missile threats like ballistic and cruise missiles.
• North Korea warns that the system could cause a nuclear arms race in space.
• The Golden Dome is part of plans announced by former President Donald Trump.
• China also opposes the Golden Dome, saying it could disrupt global balance.
• An initial budget of $25 billion is set aside for the Golden Dome, but costs could rise.
• North Korea has passed a law making it a nuclear weapons state and has tested various missiles.
• Analysts say updating US defense systems is needed, but political and technical challenges exist.

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BBC US

Moment truck explodes while driving through Chicago suburb

BBC US • May 26, 2025 • Us

A small truck exploded in Addison, a suburb of Chicago, injuring the driver and damaging four homes. The explosion was due to a leaking propane tank in the truck. The driver was hospitalized but did not suffer life-threatening injuries.

Key Facts:

• A truck exploded in Addison, a Chicago suburb.
• The explosion injured one man and damaged four homes.
• Debris, such as clothing and furniture, was spread across the street.
• One home became temporarily unlivable because part of the truck hit a main wall.
• The explosion was caused by a leaking propane tank in the truck.
• The driver of the truck was taken to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

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BBC US

In pictures: King Charles and Queen Camilla welcomed in Ottawa

BBC US • May 26, 2025 • Us

King Charles III and Queen Camilla visited Canada to highlight the country's independence and strengthen ties with the Crown. Their visit included symbolic events like a welcome at the airport, a puck drop at a street hockey game, and a tree planting ceremony. The King will also give a speech to the Canadian Parliament, a rare event since the last such occurrence in 1977.

Key Facts:

• King Charles III and Queen Camilla arrived in Ottawa for a two-day official visit to Canada.
• The visit is focused on emphasizing Canada’s sovereignty and the relationship with the Crown.
• They were welcomed by Prime Minister Mark Carney, Canadian officials, and indigenous leaders.
• A welcome ceremony included the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and Canadian Armed Forces.
• They participated in a ceremonial street hockey puck drop and met with local community members.
• The King will deliver the Speech from the Throne to outline the government's priorities.
• The last time a monarch delivered the throne speech in Canada was in 1977.
• The visit comes during a time of trade tensions with the United States.

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BBC US

Ex-police chief convicted of rape and murder escapes Arkansas prison

BBC US • May 26, 2025 • Us

Grant Hardin, a former Arkansas police chief convicted of rape and murder, escaped from an Arkansas prison. He was serving a long prison sentence for two separate crimes and managed to escape by disguising himself as law enforcement.

Key Facts:

• Grant Hardin was the police chief in Gateway, Arkansas, for about four months in 2016.
• He escaped from the North Central Unit prison in Calico Rock, Arkansas.
• Hardin was wearing a makeshift outfit to look like law enforcement when he escaped.
• He was originally sentenced in 2017 for the murder of James Appleton, a city water department worker.
• Hardin also pleaded guilty to the 1997 rape of Amy Harrison, linked to him by DNA evidence.
• He received a combined prison sentence of 80 years for his crimes.
• The Arkansas Department of Corrections is working with multiple agencies to find Hardin.
• The public has been asked to report any information to local law enforcement immediately.

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BBC US

Trump lays wreath at Arlington cemetery ceremony

BBC US • May 26, 2025 • Us

President Donald Trump attended a Memorial Day ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery. He, along with Vice-President JD Vance and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, honored American service members by standing by the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Key Facts:

• Donald Trump attended a Memorial Day event at Arlington National Cemetery.
• Vice-President JD Vance and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth were also present.
• The event took place at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
• The ceremony was to honor fallen American service members.
• Arlington National Cemetery is located near Washington, D.C.

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BBC US

The King will give a throne speech in Canada - what is it?

BBC US • May 26, 2025 • Us

King Charles is visiting Canada to deliver the Speech from the Throne, marking the opening of the 45th session of Canada's parliament. This is noteworthy because the last time a monarch delivered this address in Canada was in 1977. King Charles's visit includes various ceremonial activities, and he aims to underscore the strong relationship between Canada and the monarchy.

Key Facts:

• King Charles is in Canada to deliver the Speech from the Throne in Ottawa.
• The Speech from the Throne outlines the government's plans for the new parliamentary session.
• Usually, the governor general reads this speech, but King Charles was invited for this occasion.
• The last time a monarch delivered the throne speech in Canada was in 1977 by Queen Elizabeth II.
• King Charles's visit is his first to Canada as king, although he visited 19 times as Prince of Wales.
• Canadian leaders view the visit as a symbol of the country's sovereignty and its historic ties with the monarchy.
• Governor General Mary Simon and Prime Minister Mark Carney will welcome King Charles.
• The King will also participate in ceremonial events, such as a tree-planting ceremony.

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BBC US

Rushdie 'pleased' with attacker's maximum sentence

BBC US • May 26, 2025 • Us

Sir Salman Rushdie expressed his satisfaction that Hadi Matar, the man who attacked him in 2022, has been sentenced to 25 years in prison. The attack left Rushdie with significant injuries, including blindness in one eye and damage to his liver and hand.

Key Facts:

• Hadi Matar received a 25-year prison sentence for attempting to murder Salman Rushdie in 2022.
• The attack happened during a lecture in New York, where Matar repeatedly stabbed Rushdie.
• Rushdie lost sight in one eye, suffered liver damage, and has a paralysed hand due to the attack.
• After the attack, Rushdie wrote a book called "Knife" as a way to process the event.
• In the book "Knife," Rushdie imagines a conversation with his attacker.
• BBC filmmaker Alan Yentob collaborated with Rushdie to create an animated version of this imagined conversation.
• Sir Salman Rushdie also reflected on his friendship with Alan Yentob, who recently passed away.
• Rushdie is set to publish a new collection of short stories titled "The Eleventh Hour" in November.

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BBC US