Erion Veliaj, the former mayor of Tirana, Albania, remains imprisoned for alleged corruption, casting a spotlight on the broader struggle against corruption in the country. Veliaj, once a rising star in the ruling Socialist Party, faces an uncertain future, emblematic of the challenges Albania faces in addressing systemic corruption, a key barrier to its European Union aspirations. Tackling such entrenched issues requires not only legal reforms but a cultural shift toward accountability and transparency. The international community must pressure Albania to implement meaningful anti-corruption measures. Washington Post (World)

The Turkish Football Federation (TFF), under the hardline leadership of İbrahim Hacıosmanoğlu, has suspended 149 referees and over 1,000 players across leagues in a sweeping crackdown on illegal betting. This unprecedented move exposes systemic issues in Turkish football, with 152 referees actively gambling, undermining public trust. The TFF’s aggressive reforms, including AI-enhanced VAR systems and whistleblower hotlines, signal a long-overdue cleansing of corruption. However, further structural reforms are necessary to rebuild integrity in the sport. The Guardian

In Japan, escalating bear attacks have alarmed citizens and prompted military intervention. Bears appearing on streets, sidewalks, and even runways reflect the consequences of climate change and habitat encroachment. This crisis underlines the urgent need for sustainable wildlife management policies to mitigate human-wildlife conflict and preserve biodiversity. Japan’s response must extend beyond immediate containment to address the root causes of habitat loss. Washington Post (World)

Nvidia has allayed fears of an AI market bubble by reporting stellar financial results, with sales jumping 62% in a year. CEO Jensen Huang emphasized the transformative potential of AI, projecting record-breaking revenue for the next quarter. This success highlights the critical role of innovation in driving economic growth. Policymakers must ensure equitable access to AI technologies while addressing ethical concerns, fostering a balanced ecosystem for AI development. The Guardian

The groundbreaking fluctuation test by Max Delbrück and Salvador Luria in 1943 proved that bacterial mutations occur spontaneously, supporting Darwin’s theory of natural selection. This research, which earned a Nobel Prize years later, laid the foundation for modern genetics. As debates on genetic engineering and mutation persist, this historical milestone reminds us of the importance of rigorous experimentation in scientific progress. Live Science

Australia’s bid to host Cop31 has failed, with Turkey now hosting the summit. However, Chris Bowen’s negotiations have secured a unique role for Australia as “president of negotiations.” This compromise allows Australia to influence critical climate talks while advocating for Pacific nations’ interests. Despite the setback, this diplomatic maneuver could amplify Australia’s voice in global climate action, provided it aligns its domestic policies with its international commitments. The Guardian

Bernie Sanders has condemned Republican health care proposals, particularly the idea of replacing ACA tax credits with a one-time $6,500 check, calling it a step backward for affordable care. Sanders advocates for Medicare for All and immediate reforms like expanding ACA credits and capping prescription drug prices. These policies align with progressive goals of universal health care, challenging the profit-driven model of the current system. bostonglobe.com

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is under scrutiny over gender equality issues as he attends the G20 summit in South Africa. Back home, debates over single-sex spaces and Baroness Hallett’s pandemic governance report loom large. Starmer’s administration must navigate these challenges while maintaining focus on international solidarity, particularly in supporting Ukraine amid corruption allegations. Politico Europe

India plans to halt its purchase of discounted Russian crude as U.S. sanctions take effect, signaling a shift in global energy dynamics. This decision underscores the growing influence of geopolitical pressures on trade policies. India must now accelerate its transition to renewable energy to reduce dependency on volatile oil markets, ensuring energy security in an increasingly polarized global economy. The NY Times

A train collision near Ceske Budejovice in the Czech Republic has injured 57 people, with authorities investigating the cause. This incident highlights the need for modernized rail infrastructure and stricter safety protocols across Europe. Investment in sustainable and efficient transportation systems must be prioritized to prevent such tragedies and meet climate goals. bostonglobe.com