- Centerstage Events

United Nations directing over 60 offices and agencies to propose a 20% staff cut by mid-June took centerstage on Saturday, 31 May 2025 among all major events across the globe, and remains the highlight of this week's list of center stage events.
Picture Courtesy: Profit loss

Centerstage events of week 4

The French and German leaders...

The French and German leaders declare Ukraine may target Russian military sites launching attacks on its territory. Newly elected German Chancellor Friedrich Merz confirms that Germany and NATO allies lift all restrictions on Ukraine's use of long-range weapons inside Russia. Though Merz avoids commenting on Taurus missile deliveries, Berlin no longer discloses weapons transfers. The Kremlin condemns the move, saying it undermines peace efforts, while Zelenskyy plans a visit to Berlin.

Monday, 26 May, 2025

In two separate events...

In two separate events, and on May 27, Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim announces Timor-Leste will join ASEAN as its 11th member state during the October 2025 summit in Kuala Lumpur, pending final conditions under the economic pillar. In a separate development, Argentine President Javier Milei confirms Argentina's withdrawal from the World Health Organization during US Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s visit. Argentina criticizes the WHO’s decisions as politically driven and unscientific, echoing earlier sentiments expressed by the US administration.

Tuesday, 27 May, 2025

Onosato, 24, becomes sumo’s 75th ...

Onosato, 24, becomes sumo’s 75th yokozuna and the fastest to achieve the rank in just 13 tournaments. Hailing from Ishikawa, he follows his stablemaster Nishonoseki, Japan's last native-born yokozuna. He secures promotion after winning back-to-back titles as ozeki. At 192 cm and 191 kg, Onosato dominates with power and skill. He vows to honor the title and trains intensely, aiming to be a unique and respected grand champion.

Wednesday, 28 May, 2025

Tens of thousands rally in ...

Tens of thousands rally in Kathmandu demanding Nepal restore its monarchy and declare Hinduism the state religion. Waving flags and chanting pro-king slogans, demonstrators call for the return of the former monarch as head of state. Nearby, Republic Day supporters gather to celebrate the current system under Prime Minister Oli. Fearing clashes, authorities deploy riot police and stagger rally timings to keep both sides apart and maintain peace in the capital.

Thursday, 29 May, 2025

The U.S. Supreme Court permits ...

The U.S. Supreme Court permits President Trump to revoke the legal status of over 500,000 migrants, mostly from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela, by ending the CHNV humanitarian parole program. The court’s decision halts a lower ruling that protected migrants under Biden-era policy. Justices Jackson and Sotomayor dissent. The White House backs the move, calling it necessary. Migrants now face deportation, losing temporary rights to live and work in the U.S.

Friday, 30 May, 2025

The United Nations directs over 60 offices...

The United Nations directs over 60 offices and agencies to propose a 20% staff cut by mid-June to address a severe funding shortfall. This impacts around 2,800 of the 14,000 regular budget posts, including UNRWA and humanitarian, gender, and trade agencies. The reform, part of the UN80 initiative ahead of the organization’s 80th anniversary, aims to reduce the $3.72 billion budget by up to 20% due to years of delayed or missing member contributions.

Saturday, 31 May, 2025

In a first, Mexico holds...

In a first, Mexico holds a historic vote to elect 2,600 judges and magistrates, replacing appointments with direct elections. This sweeping judicial overhaul, supported by the ruling Morena party, aims to eliminate corruption and democratize the courts. Critics, however, warn it may compromise judicial independence and enable cartel influence. Notably, candidates include a convicted drug smuggler and El Chapo’s lawyer. Mexico, alongside Bolivia, remains one of the few nations to conduct national judicial elections.

Sunday, 1 June, 2025