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The LeadAs we celebrate Miles Davis's centenary, his 1957 film soundtrack "Ascenseur pour l'Échafaud" is being repackaged with restored audio, offering a fresh look at the jazz legend's innovative approach to film scoring and improvisation. This mostly improvised soundtrack, created over one night in a Paris studio, showcases Davis's unique harmonic openness that would later influence his masterpiece "Kind of Blue."The Creative Process Behind the SoundtrackComposed by Davis from little more than a handful of chords, this music was mostly improvised straight to a screen showing budding New Wave director Louis Malle's crime thriller "Ascenseur pour l'Échafaud" (Lift to the Scaffold), over one long night in a Paris studio in December 1957. His fine local quartet included expat New York bebop drummer Kenny Clarke, and their harmonic openness created a spacey, ethereal soundworld for a story following two lovers who think they've committed the perfect murder of an inconvenient husband, and the mishaps, farces, ecstasies and fears that populate the long night of their undoing.The Musical Landscape of NoirDreamily sensual sounds mirror misplaced hopes; there are car-chase scurries (Miles's fast-bop horn virtuosity was formidable in this period), desolately bluesy accompaniments to actor Jeanne Moreau's confused wandering in search of her partner, bar-room clamour in the trumpet/tenor-sax counterpoint between Miles and saxist Barney Wilen – but all the music stands alone, without images. A quiet slow-burn, but simmering with all of Miles Davis's timelessly extraordinary light and heat.Jazz Tributes and Contemporary ConnectionsThis month marks Miles's centenary, and a clamour of celebrations of a musical life that led him to be dubbed (by Duke Ellington, allegedly) the "Picasso of jazz" for the many styles he explored. Alongside the reissue of "Ascenseur pour l'Échafaud," other artists are paying tribute: Norwegian guitarist Hedvig Mollestad's power-trio Weejuns nods to Miles Davis' 1969 "Bitches Brew" with "Bitches Blues"; guitarist Jeff Parker unveils fascinating ways of emerging from minimalism to lyricism; and Jason Miles, a former Miles Davis keyboardist, revisits that groove-centric era in his own personal way.The Legacy of ImprovisationWhen Miles Davis was dying in September 1991, an invisible, neighbouring trumpet player began playing homages to Miles' voice-like, blues-inflected melodies instead. It was a poignant personal tribute to a unique instrumental sound, and a unique imagination, that had profoundly enriched 20th-century music. The reissue of "Ascenseur pour l'Échafaud" continues this legacy, showing how Davis's approach to improvisation and harmonic openness continues to influence musicians today.

The Childcare Crisis in BritainThe number of childminders in England has roughly halved over the past decade, with many citing rising costs, low pay and increasing paperwork as reasons for leaving the profession. Campaigners warn the decline is making it harder for families to find flexible and affordable childcare.Seeking Parent ExperiencesWe want to hear from parents and carers whose childminder has recently closed their business, stopped accepting certain age groups such those over three-year-olds or reduced the number of children they look after.Impact on FamiliesHow did it affect your family? Did you struggle to find alternative childcare? Have you been forced to move your child into a nursery setting despite feeling they were better suited to a smaller, home-from-home environment?Share Your StoryThe Guardian is collecting experiences from parents affected by the decline in childminding services. If you're 18 or over, you can share your story anonymously if you wish. Your responses are secure as the form is encrypted and only The Guardian has access to your contributions.Call for ActionAs the childcare landscape continues to change, it's crucial to understand how these changes are affecting families across the UK. By sharing your experiences, you can help highlight the challenges and potential solutions in the childcare sector.

The Lead: US-Cuba Relations Reach Critical PointUnited States President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio have issued new threats of military action against Cuba, escalating tensions between the two nations. The Trump administration, with Cuban-American Rubio at the forefront, has been increasing pressure on the communist-led island in what appears to be an attempt to institute "regime change," including a fuel blockade that has pushed the Cuban economy toward collapse.The Escalation: Military Buildup and Legal ActionsThe push against Cuba has accelerated in recent days, with the US indicting Cuba's former President Raul Castro and gathering military forces in the Caribbean. Since returning to office, Trump has implemented numerous sanctions against Cuba, including a fuel blockade that has caused blackouts and protests across the island.On Thursday, Adys Lastres Morera – sister of a high-ranking executive of the Grupo de Administracion Empresarial SA (GAESA) conglomerate, controlled by Cuba's military – was arrested. The US military has also announced that several navy ships, including an aircraft carrier, have arrived in the Caribbean to participate in maritime exercises with partners in Latin America.The Rationale: National Security ConcernsRubio told reporters that Cuba has been a national security threat for years due to its ties with US adversaries Russia and China. Rejecting suggestions of "nation building," Rubio emphasized that the issue is one of "national security." While stating that a negotiated agreement is the US "preference," he indicated that the path of diplomacy with Cuba is "not high.""Their economic system doesn't work. It's broken, and you can't fix it with the current political system that's in place," Rubio said. He added that Cuba has historically "bought time and waited out" previous administrations, but "they're not going to be able to wait us out or buy time. We're very serious, we're very focused."The Presidential Stance: Trump's Personal CommitmentPresident Donald Trump separately told reporters that US presidents have considered intervening in Cuba for decades, but that he appears likely to be "the one that does it." Trump expressed willingness to take action, stating he would be "happy" to intervene militarily in Cuba if necessary.International Response: Condemnation and SupportIn response to the US actions, Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez criticized Rubio for falsely labeling Cuba a threat. "The US secretary of state lies once again to instigate a military aggression that would provoke the shedding of Cuban and American blood," Rodriguez said.Both China and Russia have criticized the US pressure on Cuba. China stated it "firmly supports" Cuba and urged the US to de-escalate tensions and "stop threatening force." Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov commented that "under no circumstances should such methods – which border on violence – be used against either former or current heads of state."Historical Context: The Venezuela PrecedentAnalysts suggest that Trump and Rubio may be considering a similar approach in Cuba to the regime change operation conducted in Venezuela earlier in 2026. In January, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife were kidnapped in a military operation and brought to the US, where Maduro was charged with "narcoterrorism."Future Outlook: Aid Offers and Potential EscalationRubio noted that Cuba had tentatively accepted an offer of $100 million in aid in return for reforms, though it remains unclear if the US would accept Cuba's terms, as Washington insists on circumventing the military-backed conglomerate GAESA. The situation remains volatile, with both sides digging in their positions as the US continues its military buildup in the region.

The Rise of Trash Pop In 2026, a new generation of female pop stars is defying expectations of being vessels of order and stability. Instead, they're embracing a hedonistic, feral aesthetic, characterized by brash electronic pop, shameless lyrics, and anarchic sexuality. The New Wave of Trash Pop Artists like Slayyyter, Kim Petras, Cobrah, Demi Lovato, Snow Strippers' Tatiana Schwaninger, Tove Lo, and Kesha are leading the charge. Their music and style are a deliberate rejection of the traditional feminine ideal. Slayyyter, for example, describes herself as a "too drunk, trashy St Louis girl" with a carefree attitude. The Cultural Context This movement is not happening in a vacuum. It's a response to the pressures of modern life, including the climate crisis, AI, and war. According to Ione Gamble, editor of The Polyester Book of (Bad) Taste, "Part of this feels like an extension of post-lockdown nihilism. Things are so bad in a political context that we may as well have fun." The Rejection of Respectability This new wave of artists is rejecting the pressure to conform to traditional notions of femininity. Tove Lo, 38, says, "The older I get, the more intense the pressure gets around being a 'good woman,' and that mould feels so boring. There's a confidence in not doing everything perfectly." The Influence of Electroclash and Indie Sleaze The trash-pop sound is influenced by electroclash and indie sleaze, with artists drawing inspiration from the raw, unapologetic energy of the early 2000s. Charli XCX's album Brat has been cited as a key influence, with its hedonistic club energy and infectious beats. The LGBTQ+ Connection The trash-pop movement has long been popular within the LGBTQ+ community, with artists like Slayyyter, Petras, and Ayesha Erotica leading the way. The genre's emphasis on self-expression and rebellion has resonated with fans who feel marginalized or oppressed. The Future of Pop As the music industry continues to evolve, it's clear that trash pop is here to stay. With its unapologetic energy and infectious beats, this new wave of female artists is redefining what it means to be a pop star. The question is, what's next for this genre, and how will it continue to influence the music industry?

Lead: War Day 84 Marks a Shift Toward DiplomacyThe conflict between Iran and the United States entered its 84th day with renewed diplomatic activity. Both sides are exchanging draft proposals, and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio highlighted "some good signs" while President Donald Trump warned of "very drastic" action if Tehran refuses to relinquish its uranium stockpiles.Mediated Negotiations Gain MomentumPakistani officials are conducting "intense mediation activity" in Tehran, according to Al Jazeera correspondent Almigdad Alruhaid. Senior Iranian sources say negotiators are close to a draft framework, though others caution that a final agreement remains premature.Pakistani mediation is accelerating to prevent further escalation.US‑Iran red‑line shift: Cato Institute senior fellow Doug Bandow stresses the need for both parties to move beyond entrenched nuclear red lines.Key Figures and Financial Stakes7,200 civilians rescued from rubble by the Iranian Red Crescent.More than two dozen MQ‑9 Reaper drones destroyed, losses estimated at $1 bn (≈20% of pre‑war inventory).At least 42 US aircraft damaged or destroyed, total losses near $2.6 bn.US has paused a $14 bn arms sale to Taiwan to preserve munitions for the Iran campaign.Regional and Military ImplicationsCentcom reports the USS Abraham Lincoln strike group remains at "peak readiness" in the Arabian Sea, signaling continued pressure despite diplomatic overtures. Meanwhile, Israeli strikes in southern Lebanon and new US sanctions on Hezbollah allies heighten the risk of a broader regional flare‑up.Outlook for a Potential DealIf the current draft proposals survive scrutiny, a diplomatic settlement could emerge within weeks, easing military pressure and opening pathways for humanitarian aid. However, the dual track of high‑cost equipment losses and political warnings from both Washington and Tehran suggests that any agreement will require substantial concessions on nuclear constraints and future US military commitments in the region.

The LeadIn the stolid world of German football, few moments have been as seismic as Bayer Uerdingen's 2-1 victory over Bayern Munich in the 1985 German Cup final. This giant-killing act, now celebrated as the 'Miracle of Berlin,' represented a rare inversion of the natural order in a nation dominated by football's traditional powerhouses.The Historic UpsetOn May 26, 1985, at Berlin's Olympic Stadium, Uerdingen—then a modest club from Krefeld with a population of around 300,000—defeated the seven-time cup holders Bayern Munich. The Bavarians, who had also won three consecutive European Cups between 1974-1976, were considered football aristocracy. Horst Feilzer and Wolfgang Schäfer scored for Uerdingen, while Dieter Hoeness netted Bayern's only goal. The victory was particularly significant as it was the first time the DFB-Pokal final had been staged in the former German capital.Under coach Kalli Feldkamp and chairman Arno Eschler, Uerdingen had only been promoted to the Bundesliga a couple of years earlier. Their team was devoid of household names, featuring the Funkel brothers (Friedhelm and Wolfgang) in midfield, while Bayern boasted stars like a young Lothar Matthäus and Klaus Augenthaler.The Rise and FallThe cup victory was not a one-off for Uerdingen. The following season, they reached the European Cup-Winners' Cup semi-finals, with their quarter-final tie against East Germany's Dynamo Dresden becoming club lore as the 'Miracle of the Grotenburg' after an improbable second-leg comeback. That match attracted 18 million television viewers, and the club finished third in the Bundesliga in the season after their cup triumph.Despite this brief period of success, Uerdingen's star faded. The club, backed by chemicals giant Bayer AG, could not sustain their upward trajectory. Today, they remain a distant memory in German football, their moment of glory a footnote in the sport's history.The LegacyUerdingen's victory remains one of the greatest cup shocks in German football history. It demonstrated that even in a sport dominated by established powerhouses, underdogs could occasionally triumph. As chairman Arno Eschler famously hoped after the victory: 'Ich hoffe dass dies keine einmmailie' [I hope this is not a one-off]. While Uerdingen couldn't build on their success, their 'Miracle of Berlin' continues to be celebrated as one of football's great fairy tales.

Tragic Loss of a Racing IconThe NASCAR community is in shock after the death of Kyle Busch, a two‑time Cup Series champion and record‑holding winner across NASCAR’s three national series. He passed away at 41 following a brief hospitalization for a “severe illness.”Details of the Illness and HospitalisationBusch was testing in the Chevrolet racing simulator in Concord on Wednesday when he became unresponsive. He was rushed to a Charlotte hospital and died the following day. The family, Richard Childress Racing, and NASCAR released a joint statement confirming his death but did not disclose a cause.Wednesday: Unresponsive during simulator test; transported to hospital.Thursday: Family announces death; no cause released.Three days before scheduled start in the Coca‑Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway.Career Statistics Highlighting Busch’s RecordBusch’s achievements set him apart in modern motorsport:Combined wins: 234 across Cup, Xfinity (O’Reilly Auto Parts) and Trucks series.Cup victories: 63 wins.Xfinity wins: 102 wins (record).Truck Series wins: 69 wins (record).Championships: Cup Series titles in 2015 and 2019 with Joe Gibbs Racing.Rookie of the Year: 2005.Repercussions for NASCAR and the Racing CommunityThe loss reverberates through teams, drivers, and fans. Statements from NASCAR, teammates Denny Hamlin and Brad Keselowski expressed “heartbreak” and “absolute shock.” Busch’s role as an owner in the Truck Series and his outspoken personality helped build the devoted “Rowdy Nation” fan base.His career also illustrates the sport’s competitive dynamics, from early dismissal by Hendrick Motorsports to a dominant stint with Joe Gibbs Racing, and later challenges with Richard Childress Racing.Looking Ahead: Legacy and Future of the SportWhile the immediate future of Busch’s teams remains uncertain, his impact is likely to be cemented with Hall of Fame consideration and continued reverence from fans and fellow drivers. The sport may also see increased focus on driver health monitoring, given the sudden nature of his decline.

Meta has reached a confidential settlement with Breathitt County Schools in Kentucky, ending a lawsuit that alleged the company’s social networks are engineered to be addictive and cause mental‑health harm to students.Meta Settles Kentucky School District Lawsuit Over Alleged Addiction DesignThe settlement was announced less than three weeks before the case was set to go to trial in federal court in California. While the exact terms were not disclosed, Meta emphasized its ongoing work on safety tools such as Teen Accounts and parental controls.Financial Stakes and Settlement LandscapeThe Kentucky district originally sought more than $60 million to cover mental‑health services and a 15‑year remediation program.Meta’s settlement follows similar agreements by TikTok and Snap with the same group of roughly 1,200 school districts.Recent jury verdicts ordered Meta and YouTube to pay $6 million in damages and Meta to pay $375 million in civil penalties for related claims.Implications for Social Media Regulation and Child SafetyThe case adds pressure on the industry to redesign features such as infinite scrolling and autoplay video, which plaintiffs argue are deliberately addictive. Lawmakers and advocacy groups are citing these lawsuits as evidence that existing self‑regulation is insufficient, potentially accelerating federal or state legislation aimed at protecting minors online.Future Legal Battles and Industry OutlookAttorneys for the remaining school districts say they will continue pursuing justice, with another 1,200 districts still in litigation. Upcoming trials include an individual case in California and a Tennessee attorney‑general suit slated for July, while a federal case by the Tucson Unified School District is scheduled for January 2027. The outcomes of these cases will likely shape the next wave of social‑media liability and could force broader industry changes.

Executive Summary: Leader Ousted but Not DefeatedThe Turkish judiciary has removed the head of the main opposition party from his leadership role, prompting him to declare his intention to continue fighting for his political agenda. Court Ruling and Immediate AftermathThe court's decision formally terminated the leader's tenure as party chair, citing procedural violations. Within hours, the ousted figure addressed supporters, emphasizing his commitment to remain a political actor and to challenge the ruling establishment. Political Stakes and Electoral ContextNational elections are scheduled for 2027, making the leadership vacuum a critical factor for opposition strategy.The ruling party, led by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, stands to benefit from a fragmented opposition.Opposition parties are scrambling to reorganize and present a unified front. Implications for Turkey's Democratic InstitutionsThe ruling illustrates growing tensions between the judiciary and political opposition, raising concerns among international observers about the independence of Turkey's courts and the health of its democratic processes. Outlook: Potential Paths for the OppositionAnalysts anticipate two main scenarios: a rapid reconstitution of opposition leadership that could rally voters, or prolonged internal disputes that may weaken the coalition ahead of the 2027 elections. The leader's vow to stay active suggests he may pursue a role outside formal party structures, potentially influencing public discourse and mobilizing grassroots support.