#News of the world [Pre-intermediate] - By Cate - 02/06/2025

A quick glance at what's happening on Mother Earth 🌍

No country will remain untouched 😎
No celebrity or politician will remain safe 😅
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Transcript

Hello, Cate here and welcome back to NEWS OF THE WORLD!

 In World News…

Canada is increasing its defence efforts due to rising global threats and pressure from allies. Prime Minister Mark Carney announced Canada's plan to join "ReArm Europe" by 1st July, a European initiative to boost defence spending and reduce reliance on the US. The defence minister highlighted concerns about Russia, China, and Arctic tensions. Simultaneously, Canada is in talks with the US to join the "Golden Dome" missile defence system proposed by Trump. This system aims to intercept advanced threats, including hypersonic missiles, using space-based technology. Canada firmly rejects Trump's suggestion to join as a US state, affirming its sovereignty.

 Business News

The Trump administration is reviewing Harvard University’s federal funding, possibly affecting $100 million in contracts. Officials say the review targets concerns over discrimination and antisemitism, but critics call it politically driven and harmfulto research. Harvard hasn’t responded publicly, but says federal support is crucial for research on diseases like cancer and Alzheimer’s. Some funding might continue if agencies prove it’s essential. This follows previous freezes and attempts to block international students, already facing legal challenges. Labs like Harvard Medical School’s Sinclair Lab have lost staff and funding. Students, faculty, and alumni warn these cuts threaten vital research and jobs.

Entertainment

French actor Gérard Depardieu has been found guilty of sexually assaulting two women on a Paris film set in 2021. He received an 18-month suspended sentence and was added to France’s sex offender registry. The court believed the women’s stories, which described groping and crude language. Depardieu denied the claims and plans to appeal. Each woman was awarded €1,000 for emotional harm caused by the trial. His lawyer called the women liars, while their lawyers said the ruling was a step forward for justice in film. Other women have also accused Depardieu, and a separate rape case may still go to trial.

 Sport

Padel, also pronounced padel, a mix of tennis and squash, is quickly growing in popularity across Europe, similar to how pickleball has taken off in the US. Played with stringed rackets and a pressurised tennis ball on an enclosed court, padel is faster and features longer rallies than pickleball. It is usually played in doubles and is easier for beginners than tennis, yet still active and fun. The sport is gaining support from major tennis groups like the Lawn Tennis Association, and new courts are opening fast. With growing investment and interest, padel’s mix of speed, simplicity, and social play makes it a sport to watch.

 Self-development

I have just finished reading the Mel Robbins “Let Them” Theory, which offers a simple yet powerful approach to personal growth. The idea is to stop trying to control how others act. If someone judges you, ignores you, disagrees with you, or makes a choice you wouldn’t make — let them. Instead of reacting or trying to change their behaviour, just allow it. This mindset encourages emotional independence and helps you stop relying on others for validation or peace of mind.

But Robbins goes further: after “let them” comes “let me.” Let me focus on my goals. Let me use my energy wisely. Let me choose calm instead of conflict. This shift from controlling others to focusing on yourself builds resilience and clarity. You become more aware of your own needs and choices, rather than being pulled into others’ actions or opinions.

In relationships, this mindset reduces tension. Letting people be themselves means you stop micromanaging their behaviour and instead focus on how you respond. It sets clear, healthy boundaries.

“Let Them” isn’t about giving up or allowing poor treatment — it’s about letting go of what you can’t control. The result is more mental freedom, stronger self-trust, and more energy to shape the life you actually want.

Well, that’s all from NEWS OF THE WORLD for now. I hope you focus on what’s in your control today, and I’ll talk to you soon! Take care!