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The Enigmatic Artist Steven Shearer is a quiet and elusive artist who has managed to keep a low profile despite his significant contributions to the art world. His work, which spans 40 years and multiple media, is characterized by its unique blend of teenage angst, heavy metal, and high art. The Artistic Journey Shearer's artistic journey began in Vancouver, where he grew up in a suburban area not far from the serial killer Robert Pickton. This dark backdrop had a profound impact on his work, which often explores themes of suburban loneliness and adolescent alienation. The Influence of Heavy Metal Shearer's work is heavily influenced by heavy metal music and its iconography. He draws inspiration from the imagery and aesthetics of the genre, often incorporating references to famous musicians and bands into his paintings. The Exhibition Shearer's latest exhibition at the David Zwirner Gallery in London showcases his latest works, which feature frail and aged figures, marking a departure from his earlier paintings of healthy and vibrant teenagers. The exhibition offers a glimpse into Shearer's unique artistic vision and his ability to capture the complexities of the human experience. The Artist's Perspective In an interview, Shearer revealed that he aims to create universal and timeless works of art that transcend specific references and allusions. He hopes that his paintings will continue to resonate with audiences in the future, long after the specific cultural references have faded away.

The Dark Side of the Plate: What It's Like to Be a Dictator's Personal Chef Kim Jong-il loved pepperoni pizza. Saddam Hussein couldn’t resist a fish barbecue. Idi Amin reportedly had the capacity for an entire roasted goat. The menus may have differed, but the appetite was the same. For history’s most notorious strongmen, the dining table doubled as a stage for power. For the cooks who served them, every meal came with extraordinary stakes. The Lives of Dictators' Chefs In his latest film, How to Feed a Dictator, which premieres at the Tribeca film festival, five private chefs recount their intimate experiences serving some of the world’s most feared dictators and the ever-present dangers that came with the job. Based on the 2020 book by the Polish journalist Witold Szabłowski, the 95-minute documentary probes the fraught terrain between morality and survival, asking viewers to consider the choices these chefs made – and the choices they never really had. The Moral Complexity Much like the menu on offer, the perspectives vary wildly. We meet Keo Samoun at the unkempt gravesite of her former boss, the Cambodian dictator Pol Pot, laying out a spread of fish, fruit and rice for a man she still regards almost as a god. Famed pizzaiolo Ermanno Furlanis, by contrast, recalls the terror of making pies for Kim Jong-il – his life under surveillance, his passport under guard, the state apparatchik who barged into his kitchen to ensure the olives on one pizza were spaced just so. The Price of Loyalty No chef is as tormented by their service as Ugandan Charles Otonde Odera. He describes his early days working for Ugandan despot Idi Amin as life-changing – a poor villager scraping by one day, and the next driving a Mercedes, supporting eight wives, and living in extraordinary comfort as Amin terrorized and brutalized the local masses. For all the chefs, comfort was the trade. By most measures, theirs was a great gig – logic that can excuse almost anything. The Future of Accountability The dissonance appears to bring Samoun to a breaking point. “Even though he made mistakes, it couldn’t all be bad,” she says, weeping. The film implicitly makes clear that the thought of playing the hero and poisoning a dictator never occurs to these chefs. Entry into a dictator’s inner circle requires a level of deep trust that also ensures distance from those on the outside.

The Galápagos: A Shark Sanctuary Under Threat The unmistakable fluted T-shape of a scalloped hammerhead shark slides by, followed by a diver holding his breath and a metal spear like an extra-long snooker cue. The spear hits the fish behind its dorsal fin and the 2-metre shark darts away, disgruntled but otherwise unharmed. This scene, captured by researchers from the Charles Darwin Foundation, represents one of the most important conservation efforts for a species that has declined by at least 80% globally due to overfishing. Innovative Research Methods in Shark Conservation Carlos Robalino, a marine biologist from the Galápagos Islands, is part of the foundation's research expedition to Darwin and Wolf, the most northerly islands in the Galápagos marine reserve. For three or four hours each morning and afternoon, Robalino is in the sea, honing his freediving skills so he can get close enough to the sharks to take samples of their skin. "Scalloped hammerheads are super-sensitive, very nervous," says Simon McKinley, an ecologist with the dive team. "The trick is to wait for the shark to pass by under me to the point where they can't possibly see me above them. Then I can dive down." The Unprecedented Abundance of Hammerheads in Galápagos Despite being critically endangered globally, the Galápagos hosts an extraordinary population of scalloped hammerheads. On most dives during the research trip, dozens of the sharks swim by. Later in the year, in the cold season when there is more food in the seas around Darwin and Wolf, more sharks migrate to the archipelago and the population quadruples. At its peak, about 150 lion-sized scalloped hammerheads roam each hectare of sea – roughly the area of London's Trafalgar Square. There can be so many they blot out the sun. Challenges in Protecting a Globally Endangered Species Despite their local abundance, studying scalloped hammerheads in Galápagos is not easy. Researchers cannot catch these sensitive sharks because the stress of being handled could kill them. The foundation team has developed less invasive techniques, including deploying underwater cameras to monitor shark numbers. Chemical analysis of skin biopsies shows, among other things, what the sharks are eating without needing to cut open their stomachs to see the contents. However, challenges remain: "Baby hammerheads, and even females when they go to give birth, are being caught... sold and consumed as ceviche," according to Pelayo Salinas de León. Tracking Shark Migrations Across the Pacific The research team is tracking where these sharks go after leaving Galápagos. Scalloped hammerheads are not resident here but set off on long migrations, and to learn about this part of their lives requires specialized diving techniques. Pelayo Salinas de León uses a closed-circuit rebreather, a device which recycles his exhalations, removes carbon dioxide and adds more oxygen as needed, so he can dive for hours in bubble-free tranquillity without scaring off the hammerheads. He attaches satellite transmitter tags worth close to $2,000 to track their movements across the Pacific Ocean. Future Conservation Challenges in a Changing Climate From twice-yearly visits to Darwin and Wolf, the team is building a long-term picture of the sharks' lives and how they are responding to changing conditions, including the heatwaves linked to El Niño, such as the big one forecast for 2026. These climate events could significantly impact the delicate marine ecosystem that supports the hammerhead population. The research being conducted in the Galápagos provides crucial data that will help conservationists develop strategies to protect these magnificent creatures both within the marine reserve and along their extensive migration routes.

The Lead: 100 Days of Conflict Beirut, Lebanon – Tuesday marks 100 days since the beginning of Israel's second military intensification against Lebanon in less than two years. Over the last 100 days, Israeli forces have destroyed dozens of villages in southern Lebanon. Despite rounds of direct diplomatic talks between Israel and Lebanon, multiple efforts to fully implement a ceasefire have fallen by the wayside. The Event Details: Escalating Violence Israel's latest war on Lebanon began on March 2, shortly after Hezbollah fired six rockets at Israel. Since then, Israel has killed more than 3,600 people in Lebanon, according to the country's Ministry of Public Health, including at least 245 children. Another 11,000 people have been wounded in Israeli attacks, among them at least 900 children. The Data Analysis: Humanitarian Crisis At least 1.2 million people have been forcibly displaced from their homes in southern Lebanon, eastern Lebanon's Bekaa Valley, and Beirut's southern suburbs. Many of them have been displaced more than once. Israel's military has also driven deeper into Lebanese territory – occupying about 2,000sq km (770sq miles) – than at any point since it occupied south Lebanon in 2000. The Impact Analysis: Regional Implications The conflict has drawn in regional powers, with Iran pledging to link the conflict to any ceasefire deal it makes with the United States and Israel. Hezbollah's main benefactor, Iran, has also tried to tie Lebanon to any ceasefire agreement between itself and Israel and the US. The Lebanese government is trying to impose its authority, and is under pressure from the US and Israel to crack down on Hezbollah. The Prediction: Uncertain Future Analysts believe Israel is not planning on withdrawing from Lebanon, with Israeli officials stating they will occupy up to the Litani River. The situation remains volatile, with no lasting ceasefire in sight. Hezbollah's secretary-general Naim Qassem labelled the latest ceasefire agreement a “shameless” attempt to annihilate part of the Lebanese people.

The Allegations Against David Sullivan David Sullivan, the 77-year-old former pornography billionaire and co-chair of West Ham United, has been accused of sexually exploitative and predatory behaviour against women over several decades. Seven women have come forward with allegations, including claims that Sullivan abused his power as the owner of the Sport newspapers to prey on them for sex. The Investigation and Regulator's Response The BBC and Times reported on the allegations, which Sullivan has denied through his lawyers. The Independent Football Regulator (IFR) has confirmed it is seeking further information from Sullivan relating to his suitability under the owners, directors and senior executives regime. The IFR has the power to expel any figures it considers unsuitable. The Potential Impact on Sullivan's Stake in West Ham Sullivan remains the largest shareholder at West Ham with 38.8%. It is unclear if he will try to hold on to his stake or sell up. A source close to Sullivan has indicated he is open to selling his stake. The potential forced sale of Sullivan's stake could have significant implications for the club's ownership structure and future. The Financial Situation at West Ham West Ham are in financial trouble after dropping into the Championship and posting a loss of £104.2m last year. Several executives have left the club in recent months, including Karren Brady, who stepped down as vice-chair in April. The Future Outlook The future of West Ham United and David Sullivan's involvement with the club remains uncertain. The IFR's investigation and potential actions will likely have a significant impact on the club's ownership and direction. It is unclear if Daniel Křetínský, a Czech billionaire who owns a 27% stake in the club, will look to increase his shareholding.

The Team Selection ProcessThe final round of the regular Premiership season is approaching, with playoffs yet to come. The Guardian's 2025-26 team of the season features players who needed to have appeared in at least nine league fixtures to earn selection. This rigorous criteria ensures only the most consistent performers across the campaign are recognized.The Rising StarsThe team showcases several emerging talents, headlined by 19-year-old Noah Caluori of Saracens. The young winger has demonstrated exceptional aerial ability, contributing 14 tries in just three games against Sale (twice) and Newcastle. His overall tally of 18 tries in 12 Premiership games places him at the top of the scoring charts. Despite his youth, Caluori's "ceiling" is described as sky-high, suggesting even greater potential to come in his career.The Seasoned VeteransExperienced players form the backbone of this selection, with Ben Spencer of Bath earning the nod at scrum-half. Pushed all the way by Northampton's Archie McParland, Spencer's all-round contribution has been massive. There is no better kicking scrum-half in the league, nor one who controls the tempo of a game so expertly. Similarly, George Furbank of Northampton has overcome an injury-disrupted start to re-emerge as a key cog in Saints' slick backline and must be in pole position to regain the starting England No 15 jersey.The Statistical StandoutsSeveral players have produced remarkable statistics this season. Tommy Freeman of Northampton boasts an enviable strike rate, with 16 tries in 13 league matches – an excellent return following a long, intense British & Irish Lions season which left him mentally drained. Immanuel Feyi-Waboso of Exeter has been consistently dangerous, particularly after his return from a lengthy injury absence, while Billy Searle of Leicester has been a revelation at fly-half, boosting his confidence and skillset since his move from France.The Impact PlayersNicky Smith of Leicester has been a consistent presence, starting every one of the Tigers' regular season games – remarkable in an era where clubs typically rotate their prop forwards. Gabriel Oghre of Bristol has demonstrated remarkable versatility as a hooker, with his lineout throws and tactical kicking impressing observers. Thomas du Toit of Bath provides a powerful presence in the front row, while Rory Hutchinson of Northampton has shown his ability to cut smart angles and inject vital pace at crucial moments.The Future OutlookAs the playoffs approach, this team of the season provides insight into which players could make the biggest impact. With Northampton Saints heavily represented across multiple positions, they appear well-positioned for the postseason challenges. The selection also highlights the exciting blend of youth and experience in the Premiership, with teenagers like Caluori complementing seasoned internationals. The transition of players like Furbank to Harlequins this summer will add further intrigue to the league's landscape.

The 2026 World Cup: A Beginner's Guide The 2026 World Cup is set to be the largest and most complex tournament yet, with 48 teams competing across 16 cities in Canada, Mexico, and the US. The tournament will run from June 11 to July 19, with the final taking place in New Jersey. How the Tournament Works The 48 teams are initially divided into 12 four-team groups, with each team playing the others in the group once. The top two from each group, along with the eight best third-placed teams, will advance to the knockout stages. Matches from that point on are single-elimination - lose and you're out. The Contenders Spain are aiming to follow up their European title with the World Cup this time around. France, the reigning champions, Argentina, England, Brazil, and Germany are also among the top contenders. Dark Horses Morocco, who made the semi-finals in 2022, are considered a dark horse, as is Norway, who have the formidable goalscorer Erling Haaland at their disposal. Players to Watch The most famous players at the tournament will be Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, although they are not considered the best. Ousmane Dembélé, Lamine Yamal, Haaland, Harry Kane, and Kylian Mbappé are among the top players to watch. Where to Watch The tournament will be broadcast on TV and online, with Fox and Telemundo in the US, SBS in Australia, TSN and CTV in Canada, and the BBC and ITV in the UK. Travel and Environment The tournament will involve a lot of travel, with teams and fans traveling across the three host countries. The 2026 bid book emphasized the co-hosts' commitment to the environment, but this World Cup will likely have a significant impact. Prize Money Fifa is paying out $727m in prize money for the tournament, with the winners alone getting $50m.

Five civilians were killed in Russian missile and drone strikes across Ukraine’s Kharkiv and Donetsk regions on 8‑9 June 2026, including a pregnant woman, as President Volodymyr Zelenskyy praised a recent phone call with U.S. special envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner aimed at reviving diplomacy.Deadly Russian Strikes Hit Kharkiv and DonetskOvernight missile attacks hit the town of Chuhuiv in the northeastern Kharkiv region, injuring six people and damaging residential buildings and shops. In the city of Kharkiv, a drone strike wounded 16, including children, and set a building ablaze. Separate strikes in Donetsk’s Bilozerske and Druzhkivka killed two people, while 11 others were injured in Sloviansk and Shabelkivka.Casualties and Damage: The Human TollKharkiv region: 3 dead (including a pregnant woman) + 6 injured in Chuhuiv.Kharkiv city: 16 wounded in drone attack.Donetsk region: 2 dead in Bilozerske and Druzhkivka; 11 injured elsewhere.Diplomatic Momentum: Zelenskyy’s Call with US EnvoysPresident Zelenskyy posted on X that his conversation with U.S. envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner was “very positive.” He thanked them for their readiness to “rein­vigorate diplomacy aimed at ending Russia’s war against Ukraine” and noted that, despite global focus on Iran, “our shared goal of peace in Europe remains on the agenda.”Geopolitical Ripple Effects: G7, NATO and Coalition CoordinationFollowing Zelenskyy’s call, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron issued a joint statement reaffirming “unwavering support” for Ukraine. They discussed leveraging upcoming G7, NATO and the “Coalition of the Willing” summits to increase pressure on Russia’s war economy and to boost military and defence assistance.Outlook: Prospects for Negotiations and Military SupportZelenskyy’s interview with The Guardian suggested internal divisions within the Russian leadership, hinting that “half of them want to continue this war, half want to stop.” While President Vladimir Putin dismissed a direct meeting as premature, the combination of intensified Ukrainian drone strikes on Russian oil facilities and heightened diplomatic activity could create leverage for future negotiations, especially as the G7 summit approaches in France.

In late May 2026, almost 700 students gathered on Leipzig University’s central square, raised yellow cards and voted overwhelmingly for the student council to sever all ties with Israeli universities—a move that epitomises a rapidly expanding wave of Palestinian solidarity on German campuses. The Leipzig Student Council Vote to Cut Israeli Ties The vote, described by 22‑year‑old Orlando Becker of Students for Palestine Leipzig as a “historic moment for Germany,” called for an immediate halt to collaborations with five Israeli partner universities, which the activists argue are linked to Israel’s military complex. University officials later denied the students permission to use a lecture hall for a general assembly, citing concerns over “partisan statements” and alleged restrictions on academic freedom. Numbers Behind the Campus Boycott Wave 700 students participated in the Leipzig vote. 1,300 signatures were collected to trigger a general student assembly. Student councils in Berlin (Hertie School) and Dusseldorf (Heinrich‑Heine University) have also passed or debated similar BDS‑style resolutions. At the Hertie School, the BDS resolution passed with over 90 % in favour and no opposition. Previous campus actions include a November 2023 occupation at Free University of Berlin and a May 2024 takeover of Humboldt University’s Institute of Social Sciences. Implications for German Academia and State Policy The surge in student‑led boycotts challenges Germany’s long‑standing “Staatsraison” – the perceived national interest of supporting Israel – and raises questions about the autonomy of state‑funded universities. While the Bundestag labels BDS as extremist, it remains legal, creating a gray area for institutions that must balance legal freedom of expression with political pressure. Experts such as Uffa Jensen of the Center for Research on Antisemitism at TU Berlin note that, unlike the swift government‑mandated cut‑off of Russian university ties after the Ukraine invasion, German authorities have so far allowed collaborations with Israeli institutions to continue, signaling a differentiated policy response. Future Trajectory of BDS Support in German Universities Analysts anticipate that the momentum will continue as more student bodies organize petitions, occupy lecture halls and demand transparency about research links to the Israeli defense sector. However, potential legal challenges, funding threats and heightened security measures could temper the pace of change. Should the movement sustain its current scale, universities may face increased scrutiny over joint projects, especially in fields such as archaeology, surveillance technology and weapons research, prompting a re‑evaluation of partnership criteria across Germany’s higher‑education landscape.