Global News Roundup: Resignations, Elections, and Tributes

This week, the world witnessed a series of significant events that made headlines across the globe. In the UK, Morgan McSweeney, chief of staff to Prime Minister Keir Starmer, resigned amid controversy over the appointment of Peter Mandelson as US ambassador. McSweeney took full responsibility for advising the PM on the appointment, which he now considers a "grave mistake" that has damaged the party, the country, and trust in politics. In a statement, McSweeney said, "The decision to appoint Peter Mandelson was wrong. He has damaged our party, our country and trust in politics itself. When asked, I advised the prime minister to make that appointment and I take full responsibility for that advice." [1] Meanwhile, in Thailand, Prime Minister Anutin Charnavirakul claimed victory in the country's general election, with early results showing his conservative party ahead of its rivals. Anutin's Bhumjaithai party is projected to win 197 seats in the 500-seat parliament, with the reformist People's Party in second place. [2] The election was called after several coalition governments collapsed, leading to three prime ministers in as many years. Anutin's success defied opinion polls that had placed the People's Party ahead. The People's Party leader, Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut, appeared to concede the election, saying he was ready to serve in opposition if Anutin could form a government. In other news, Valeria Chomsky, wife of renowned linguist and philosopher Noam Chomsky, apologized for her husband's ties to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Valeria Chomsky said that Epstein had deceived them, and they were "careless" not to thoroughly research his background. [3] Noam Chomsky, 97, had been under scrutiny after documents released by the House oversight committee showed him speaking with Epstein. Valeria Chomsky's statement acknowledged that their relationship with Epstein was a "grave mistake" and expressed regret for not being more diligent in researching his background. In a sad note, the music world mourned the loss of Brad Arnold, lead singer and songwriter of the US rock band 3 Doors Down. Arnold, 47, died after a battle with cancer, which he had announced in May 2025. The band paid tribute to their founding member, saying, "He will be deeply missed and forever remembered." [4] Arnold was known for hits like "Kryptonite," "Here Without You," and "Loser." The band's statement remembered him as a key figure in redefining mainstream rock music, blending post-grunge accessibility with emotional depth. As the world continues to grapple with the complexities of politics, social issues, and personal struggles, these stories serve as a reminder of the human experience in all its forms. References: [1] Morgan McSweeney resigns as Keir Starmer’s chief of staff [2] Thai PM claims election victory as early results show conservatives ahead [3] Noam Chomsky’s wife apologizes for their ‘grave mistake’ in Epstein ties [4] 3 Doors Down lead singer Brad Arnold dies at 47