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On the closing night of Coachella’s opening weekend, Karol G broke new ground as the festival’s first Latina headliner. Introducing herself in English, the Colombian artist announced, “I am Carolina Giraldo from Medellín, Colombia, and today I am the first Latina woman to headline Coachella,” to a roar of cheers from a crowd waving flags from Mexico, Puerto Rico, Venezuela, Colombia and beyond.The moment echoed Beyoncé’s 2018 ‘Beychella’ debut, reminding fans that representation on this stage can reshape cultural narratives. Karol G’s 90‑minute performance combined dazzling costume changes, high‑energy choreography and a stage that seemed to rise two stories above the desert floor, creating a spectacle that felt both meticulously crafted and effortlessly vibrant.From the opening number “Latina Foreva,” where she strutted in a glittering gold bikini, to the cave‑like rave set that highlighted the “primordial wildness of women,” the show never lost its momentum. Even a half‑hour delay for lighting adjustments was quickly forgiven as the music surged forward, blending hard‑hitting tracks from her 2025 album Tropicoqueta with hits from 2023’s Mañana Será Bonito.Musically, the set was a tour of Latin genres. After a brief interlude, Karol G returned wearing a Carnival‑style feathered headdress for the mambo‑infused “Tropicoqueta.” She then invited an all‑female Mexican mariachi band for “Ese Hombre Es Malo,” followed by a duet with Becky G that mixed Spanish‑language celebration of Mexico and Colombia with a pointed nod to the United States’ immigration debate.Speaking amid the roar of the crowd, the 35‑year‑old artist said, “This is not just about me, this is about the Latina community, the love of my people,” acknowledging the delicate balance of celebrating Latin pride while the U.S. government tightens immigration policies. Her remarks highlighted the symbolic weight of performing such a vibrant, unapologetic Latin set on a stage that reaches millions worldwide.The finale reinforced the message of unity. After a soulful cover of Gloria Estefan’s “Mi Tierra,” Karol G launched into an EDM‑styled version of “Provenza,” complete with rainbow lasers, strobe lights, fireworks and a cascade of confetti. Three false‑ending beat drops and a megawatt smile underscored her point: the victory belongs to the entire Latin community, not just the performer.

Greenland Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen has urged NATO allies to stand united in defending international law, following US President Donald Trump's recent comments about the Arctic island. Trump's remarks described Greenland as a 'big, poor, poorly run, piece of ice.'Nielsen firmly rejected this characterization, stating, 'We are not some piece of ice. We are a proud population of 57,000 people, working every single day as good global citizens in full respect for all our allies.'The Prime Minister emphasized the importance of maintaining the post-war geopolitical order, including NATO's defence alliance and globally respected international law. 'Those things are being challenged now, and I think all allies should stand together to try to maintain them. I hope that will happen,' he said.NATO allies had been scrambling earlier this year to keep the alliance together after Trump revived his push to seize Greenland from Denmark, a fellow NATO member. The White House in January said Trump was weighing the use of military force in Greenland, prompting Germany, France, and other European nations to send troops to the island in a show of solidarity and deterrence.Trump later backed down after talks with NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, stating that 'the framework of a future deal' had been formed and moving the Greenland dispute to a diplomatic track. Diplomatic talks between Greenland, Denmark, and the US are ongoing, with more meetings scheduled.Despite the talks, Nielsen made it clear he did not believe Trump had abandoned his ambitions regarding the island: 'I cannot see that his desire to either take over or control Greenland has been taken off the table,' he said.

President Donald Trump has launched a scathing attack on NATO, expressing disappointment with the alliance's reluctance to support the US in its conflict with Iran. In a post on his TruthSocial platform, Trump wrote in capital letters: "NATO wasn't there when we needed them, and they won't be there if we need them again".The remarks came after a two-hour meeting with NATO's Secretary-General, Mark Rutte, at the White House. The meeting took place a day after the US and Iran agreed to a ceasefire. Trump's comments have raised concerns about the future of the transatlantic alliance, which he has repeatedly called a "paper tiger".Rutte, known as the "Trump whisperer" for his ability to maintain a productive relationship with the US president, said that Trump was "clearly disappointed with many NATO allies". However, Rutte also pushed back against some of Trump's broader criticism, highlighting the contributions of many European nations to NATO.In addition to his criticism of NATO, Trump also appeared to revive his threat to seize Greenland from Denmark, a move that had previously roiled the alliance. "Remember Greenland, that big, poorly run, piece of ice!!!" he wrote.The Wall Street Journal reported that Trump was considering punishing some NATO members he believed were unhelpful during the conflict by moving US troops out of their countries. However, Rutte declined to comment directly on the report.NATO, formed in 1949 to counter the Soviet Union, has been the cornerstone of Western security. The alliance has only activated its mutual defence clause on one occasion, following the September 2001 attacks on the World Trade Center in the US.

At a Wednesday briefing, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt framed the ongoing US‑Israel war against Iran as a "test" that NATO failed, hinting that President Donald Trump is weighing a possible withdrawal from the alliance. She quoted the president saying the partnership had turned its back on the American people over the past six weeks. Shortly thereafter, Trump met with NATO Secretary‑General Mark Rutte at the White House. Both described the discussion as "frank and open," with Rutte acknowledging logistical support and base access from allies, but noting the absence of direct military contributions. During a CNN interview, host Jake Tapper asked Rutte whether the president intended to pull the United States out of NATO or at least reduce its backing. Rutte admitted there was disappointment, yet emphasized he had listened carefully to Trump’s arguments and praised the president’s leadership. Since assuming office in 2025, Trump has intensified pressure on NATO members to raise defence spending. At the 2025 NATO summit, members agreed to a non‑binding target of 5 % of GDP by 2035. Spain’s request for an exemption sparked a year‑long public denouncement by Trump. Earlier, Trump threatened to seize the Danish territory of Greenland, claiming its strategic value, though the United States has since softened that stance. Nevertheless, he continues to argue that US control of Greenland is essential, despite opposition from local residents and European leaders. The Wall Street Journal reported that the administration is evaluating the closure of U.S. bases or the redeployment of troops from countries such as Spain and Germany as retaliation for their limited engagement in the Iran conflict. When pressed about a potential NATO exit, Leavitt confirmed that the president "has discussed" the option and may address it after his meeting with Rutte. The president’s relationship with Rutte remains close; the Dutch leader has visited the White House multiple times during Trump’s second term. Rutte warned that NATO "will not work" without U.S. support, underscoring the strategic stakes of any American pull‑back. The unfolding debate highlights a deepening rift between Washington and its European partners at a time when the broader geopolitical landscape is already destabilised by the Iran war.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte revealed that Donald Trump was 'clearly disappointed' that US allies refused to join the war against Iran during a closed-door meeting in Washington. This comes as the alliance faces scrutiny over its response to the conflict.Rutte described the meeting with Trump as 'very frank, very open' between 'two good friends,' but declined to directly address whether Trump raised his threat to withdraw from NATO over the Iran war.The meeting occurred against the backdrop of a fragile two-week ceasefire deal between the US and Iran, which includes reopening the Strait of Hormuz. This agreement was reached after Trump threatened to target Iran's civilian infrastructure if Tehran didn't allow safe passage through the strait.Trump has been critical of NATO, calling it a 'paper tiger' and suggesting the US may consider leaving after NATO member countries ignored his call for military assistance to help reopen the critical waterway. Global oil prices have soared due to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.In a post on Truth Social, Trump wrote: 'NATO WASN'T THERE WHEN WE NEEDED THEM, AND THEY WON'T BE THERE IF WE NEED THEM AGAIN.' Trump's frustrations with the alliance 'began' with their opposition to his desired takeover of Greenland.Despite these tensions, Republican senator Mitch McConnell issued a statement in support of the alliance, urging Trump to be 'clear and consistent' and emphasizing that it's not in America's interest to 'spend more time nursing grudges with allies who share our interests than deterring adversaries who threaten us.'Congress passed a law in 2023 that prevents any US president from pulling out of NATO without its approval, championed by Trump's current secretary of state, Marco Rubio.

The UK government is facing growing pressure to address the looming energy crisis sparked by the Iran war. Despite the £117-a-year cut to household utility bills announced in the autumn budget, energy costs are expected to rise again in the summer. The latest forecast from consultancy Cornwall Insight estimates the cost of a dual-fuel bill will rise by 17.6% from July.Labour ministers have been urging people to 'keep calm and carry on,' but critics argue that this message may be underplaying the scale of the challenges ahead. Andrew Sissons, director of the climate programme at Nesta, says the reality is that the global supply of oil and gas is going to be down by maybe 20%, and everybody needs to consume less.The government is trying to balance the need to address the cost of living crisis with the risk of sowing panic and denting consumer confidence. However, experts argue that a more nuanced message, such as 'keep calm but cut down,' could be more effective in encouraging people to reduce their energy consumption.Jill Rutter, of the Institute for Government thinktank, suggests that people can take steps to manage down their consumption, such as being more efficient and switching to clean electricity. The government is also facing pressure to reconsider its plans to reverse the Tories' 5p cut to fuel duty.As the conflict continues, the 'keep calm and carry on' message may sound increasingly adrift from reality. The government must navigate the challenges of addressing the energy crisis while avoiding panic and maintaining consumer confidence.

Curaçao, a tiny island nation with a population of 155,000, has been on a whirlwind journey since qualifying for their first World Cup last November. Their preparation for the 2026 tournament has been marked by geopolitical challenges, including a complicated flight to Australia for games against China and the Socceroos.The two teams meet in Melbourne on Tuesday, with Curaçao's coach, Fred Rutten, and his assistant, Roel Coumans, bringing a wealth of experience to the encounter. Coumans previously worked with the Socceroos under Bert van Marwijk and has insight into Australia's coaching dynamics.Curaçao's squad, largely comprised of players with Dutch backgrounds, boasts talented individuals like captain Leandro Bacuna and ex-Manchester United midfielder Tahith Chong. Despite being ranked 76th in the world, Coumans is optimistic about Curaçao's chances, citing the team's eager and determined players.The Socceroos, on the other hand, are gearing up for their own World Cup campaign, with a tough opener against Germany on June 14. Curaçao's experience against European giants could prove valuable in their own preparations.As the teams prepare for their respective World Cup campaigns, this FIFA series serves as a crucial test for both Curaçao and the Socceroos. With plenty of goodwill expected from fans, particularly in Holland, Curaçao aims to make a lasting impression on the global stage.

Iran has strongly denied allegations of launching a missile attack on a joint US-UK military base on the Indian Ocean island of Diego Garcia. The Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the claim as an 'Israeli false flag' attack, accusing Israel of spreading disinformation. The denial comes after NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte stated that the alliance could not confirm Israel's claim that the projectiles used were Iranian intercontinental ballistic missiles. This development has raised questions about the credibility of Israel's allegations and the potential motives behind them. Iran's Foreign Affairs spokesman, Esmaeil Baghaei, wrote on X that the accusations reflected a pattern of 'disinformation' and criticized NATO's support for the US and Israel. He emphasized that the world has grown tired of 'false flag' storylines, suggesting that such claims are becoming increasingly discredited. Earlier, US media outlets reported that missiles were launched between Thursday night and Friday morning but failed to hit the Diego Garcia base. If Iran were confirmed to be behind the attacks, it would imply that it possesses ballistic missiles with a range of over 4,000km, capable of reaching as far as London. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi had previously stated that Iran had intentionally limited its missile range to below 2,000km to avoid being perceived as a threat by other countries. UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper condemned what she called 'reckless Iranian threats' but emphasized that London would not be drawn into a wider conflict in the Middle East. The UK-US military airbase on Diego Garcia is home to nearly 2,500 mostly American personnel and has supported various US military operations over the years. Israel's military chief, Eyal Zamir, claimed that Iran used a two-stage intercontinental ballistic missile with a range of 4,000km to target the base. Israel has long considered Iran's missile and nuclear programs a threat and has lobbied the US for military intervention.