The New York Times highlights a study revealing that China's loans have reached an unprecedented scale, with even wealthier nations like the United States becoming significant recipients of Chinese financing. This dual strategy reflects Beijing's ambition to expand influence globally while maintaining economic leverage. Analysts suggest that while developing nations risk debt dependency, wealthier countries may face more nuanced challenges, such as geopolitical entanglements or increased scrutiny of financial transparency. The NY Times

The Boston Globe reports that a U.S. Bankruptcy Court judge has approved Purdue Pharma’s settlement plan, requiring the Sackler family to pay up to $7 billion. This settlement is notable for its inclusion of compensation for individual victims of the opioid crisis, a departure from previous frameworks. Critics, however, argue that the Sacklers largely escape direct accountability, as they relinquish company ownership without facing criminal charges. The settlement’s long-term impact on addressing the opioid epidemic remains uncertain. bostonglobe.com

The New York Times reveals that European energy firms are renegotiating their climate commitments amid rising demand for oil and gas. The pragmatic shift suggests that short-term energy needs are outweighing environmental goals, particularly in light of geopolitical instabilities and energy security concerns. This trend raises questions about the viability of global climate targets under current economic pressures. The NY Times

The Boston Globe reports that NIH grant cuts have left hundreds of clinical trials and 74,000 patients in limbo, disrupting global biomedical research. Critics argue that such terminations undermine the U.S.’s scientific credibility and long-term health innovation. The cuts reflect shifting health priorities under the Trump administration, but they have sparked widespread backlash from the research community, which highlights the ethical and economic costs of halting vital projects midstream. bostonglobe.com

USA Today reports that the House of Representatives is set to vote on a bill forcing the release of Jeffrey Epstein's files. The bipartisan push reflects increasing public demand for transparency regarding Epstein’s network and alleged co-conspirators. While President Trump has shifted to support the bill, some critics highlight that he could have ordered the release unilaterally, raising questions about political maneuvering. This legislation, if passed, could lead to major revelations while intensifying scrutiny of high-profile figures. bostonglobe.com USA Today

According to The Boston Globe, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman will visit the White House to discuss Middle East stability and economic cooperation. Despite lingering controversy over Saudi Arabia’s human rights record, the visit signals a renewed U.S.-Saudi partnership, particularly in light of the Gaza reconstruction plan and regional security concerns. Skeptics warn that the meeting may prioritize defense and energy deals over addressing systemic reform issues within the kingdom. bostonglobe.com

The Guardian reports that the UN Security Council has endorsed a U.S. resolution for an international stabilization force in Gaza. The inclusion of language referencing a possible Palestinian state was critical for securing Arab and Islamic support. However, opposition within Israel and vague implementation details leave the plan’s feasibility in question. This resolution may mark a diplomatic milestone, though much depends on the cooperation of regional actors and the disarmament of Hamas. The Guardian

The Scientist highlights groundbreaking research from UCSF identifying biomarkers for multiple sclerosis (MS) years before symptom onset. By analyzing protein signatures in patients’ blood, researchers hope to enable earlier intervention and improve treatment outcomes. While experts praise the findings, they caution that further validation is needed to ensure broader applicability, especially given the limited study demographics. The Scientist

Science Alert reports on the discovery of type-I nNOS neurons, which regulate brain activity and blood flow. These neurons may play a critical role in sleep and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s. Researchers emphasize the need for further investigation into how chronic stress may accelerate neuron loss, potentially opening avenues for targeted therapies. Science Alert

The Guardian explores the risks of knowledge erasure in AI systems, emphasizing how generative AI amplifies dominant cultural norms while marginalizing oral traditions and Indigenous knowledge. Researchers warn that this imbalance may exacerbate global inequities and diminish local ecological expertise, urging stakeholders to prioritize more inclusive data sourcing and validation processes. The Guardian