19 C The Times of India
Elections 2026Europe / The Times of India
At an otherwise routine Oval Office meeting on Thursday, Donald Trump made a joke about Pearl Harbour directly to Japan's prime minister Sanae Takaichi, invoking the 1941 surprise attack that killed 2,400 Americans and drew the United States into the Second World War. Takaichi widened her eyes, said nothing, and moved on. For eight decades, American presidents have avoided the subject in Japanese company, understanding that the alliance depends in part on leaving certain histories alone. Trump,
Barron Trump turns 20 today, and despite spending his entire life in one of the world's most scrutinised families, he remains its most private member. From a $150 million crypto fortune and a yerba mate start-up to quietly reshaping his father's social media strategy, the NYU sophomore is building something of his own. He just hasn't told anyone about it yet.
The 2026 Annual Threat Assessment warns of escalating global threats: a five-fold rise in missiles targeting the US, Iran seeking revenge, North Koreas expanding arsenal, and Chinas race for AI dominance. While highlighting persistent cyber, space, and nuclear challenges, the report credits Trump for border security and de-escalation efforts, noting that technological competition, pandemics, and geopolitical instability increasingly shape American security risks.
The University of Oxford received widespread praise on social media for extending warm wishes to those observing Chaitra Navratri. The gesture, featuring a sunset image of the university's spires, was lauded as a meaningful expression of cultural inclusivity by a global audience. This acknowledgment resonated particularly with Indian students and alumni, reflecting Oxford's ongoing efforts to embrace diverse traditions.
Rory McEntee, a Dubai-based businessman stranded in the UK during Middle East flight disruptions, said he was desperate to return, arguing the UAE felt safer than London despite missile threats. He criticised the UK government for offering zero help and pointed to constant petty crime in London, calling the situation no way to live and reinforcing his long-running safety concerns.
New York Citys push to expand free childcare under Zohran Mamdani and Kathy Hochul is colliding with rising private preschool costs, as providers hike fees amid wage pressures and competition for staff. While public programmes aim to ease affordability, families outside the system face escalating expenses in an already costly and unequal childcare market.