Britain just agreed the world’s toughest smoking ban. Conservatives hate it.
U.N. commission accuses Israel of obstructing Oct. 7 probe.
Biden calls for steep hike to tariff on Chinese steel.
Venezuela and Honduras announce actions to protest Ecuador’s embassy raid.
Ukrainian president signs controversial law to boost conscription to fend off Russia’s aggression (also: Ukraine’s race to hold the line):
Speaking of which: Poland ready to host NATO nuclear weapons.
US to help Armenia modernize its military (partially elbowing Russia out of the way in the country).
Russia’s confirmed dead count in Ukraine tops 50,000.
The US House (after much time and deliberation) passed a bill that should result in more funds and weapons (and ammo) for Ukrainian soldiers (how it happened).
And Finland is augmenting defenses along its long border with Russia:
Russia’s still got a lot of advantages over Ukraine, though.
Tensions rise in Australia after a bishop and priest are wounded in a knife attack in a church.
Nigeria inflation climbs to 28-year high in March.
Dramatic photos after UAE sees heaviest rainfall in 75 years:
Indians vote in the first phase of the world’s largest election as Modi seeks a third term.
Iran says Israeli threats may spark shift in nuclear policy.
How I built an AI-powered, self-running propaganda machine for $105 (it’s gonna’ be a wild and worrisome election year).
Deconstructing the spectacle and stagecraft of a Donald Trump rally:
VW workers vote to join UAW in historic southern win for union.
Congress extends controversial warrantless surveillance law for two years (more on this in this week’s LKT).
Behind the New Iron Curtain.
Inside the White House’s frenetic scramble to avert a full-blown Middle East war.