The 2026 World Cup is already facing controversy. Iran says visa restrictions forced its team to base itself in Mexico, while Iraqi players and media have reportedly faced entry hurdles. Is politics overshadowing football's biggest tournament before it even begins?
A former NATO official says Vladimir Putin was talked out of using a nuclear weapon against Ukraine, underscoring how close the war may have come to a catastrophic escalation. A sobering reminder of the vital role of diplomacy and deterrence.
President Trump marked the first trading day of the new "Trump Accounts" by ringing the opening bell at the NYSE. The programme gives eligible newborns a $1,000 government-funded investment account, aiming to build long-term wealth. Smart policy or political branding? #Trump
Luke "Sky" Christopher Duffy spent years building a career in Ireland's film industry while allegedly hiding from the FBI over his past involvement in a major US drug-smuggling operation. Stranger than fiction. One of the most remarkable stories you'll read this week.
Happy Father’s Day from Quirky Media
Here's to the dads who teach us, support us, inspire us, and occasionally embarrass us.
We hope you have a brilliant day surrounded by the people who matter most. 💙
Happy Father’s Day!
🚀 SpaceX is buying AI coding startup Anysphere, creator of Cursor, in a staggering $60 billion deal. The acquisition gives SpaceX a major foothold in the AI software race and could reshape how developers build software in the years ahead. #AI#SpaceX
A London council has seized a social housing flat rented by Sierra Leone’s First Lady, Fatima Jabbe-Bio, after ruling it was no longer her principal residence. The property will now be reassigned to a family on the waiting list. Fair decision or political controversy?
🇺🇦 Zelensky has revealed that former Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich acted as a messenger between Kyiv and Moscow during peace talks. Abramovich reportedly carried messages between the two sides as efforts to end the war continue. #Ukraine#Russia
"Albania is not for sale."
Thousands protested in Tirana against a luxury resort project linked to Jared Kushner near a protected wetland home to flamingos and sea turtles. Critics say the development puts profits before nature and local interests.
Over 80% of Ireland’s alumina exports went to Russia in the first quarter of 2026, according to an RTÉ Prime Time investigation. The Ukrainian Embassy has raised concerns, while the Government says sanctions could harm Irish jobs and EU industry. Should these exports continue?
Israel’s Nations League clash with Ireland could be moved from Dublin following growing political pressure and public opposition. Ireland boss Heimir Hallgrímsson says he wants the game at home but admits a neutral venue may be necessary if hosting becomes unworkable.
The parents of former OpenAI whistleblower Suchir Balaji are disputing the official suicide ruling surrounding his death, saying he “would not harm himself.” The case is reigniting debate around AI accountability, corporate power, and whistleblower protections.
Ukraine has launched drone strikes inside Russia after suffering three days of heavy bombardment from Russian missiles and drones. Civilian areas in Kyiv were hit hard as the war enters another dangerous phase of escalation and long-range retaliation.
Whoever succeeds Keir Starmer may inherit an economic mess with no easy fix. UK debt stands at £2.9tn, borrowing tops £3bn a week, and interest costs exceed £110bn yearly. Bond yields now higher than Italy & Greece. More pain ahead, no clear path out.
Gript Media has confirmed the suspension of editor John McGuirk pending an internal process concerning governance and related issues. McGuirk says he rejects the substance of the claim entirely. Another major development in Ireland’s independent media scene.
Austria has expelled three Russian embassy staff from Vienna over suspected spying, after reports of covert surveillance equipment at diplomatic sites. Vienna’s long reputation as Europe’s espionage capital is back in focus, with Moscow warning of retaliation.
Fiji could declare a state of emergency as police and military intensify a nationwide crackdown on drugs and gang crime. Checkpoints are in place across the country, while concerns grow over organised crime links and the impact on civil liberties.
Saudi Arabia is set to end its huge financial backing of LIV Golf after 2026, putting the future of the breakaway tour in doubt. After billions spent and years of disruption, players may now look back to traditional tours. Big questions ahead for the sport.
Ryanair says fears of a jet fuel shortage are easing, with no disruption expected into early summer. While the outlook has improved, uncertainty remains as airlines continue to monitor costs and adjust plans amid ongoing global pressures.