SUMMARY: Austrian countertenor JJ (Johannes Pietsch) won the 69th Eurovision Song Contest in Basel with “Wasted Love,” blending operatic vocals and techno. Austria celebrates its third Eurovision victory after Conchita Wurst (2014) and Udo Jürgens (1966). Upon arrival in Vienna, JJ was greeted with acclaim from leaders including President Alexander van der Bellen and Chancellor Christian Stoecker. Several Austrian cities expressed interest in hosting next year’s contest, with JJ favoring Vienna. The final featured 26 acts amid tensions over Israel’s participation due to the Gaza conflict. Israeli singer Yuval Raphael placed second amid protests. The event aimed to promote unity, diversity, and inclusivity despite geopolitical challenges.

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SUMMARY: Wes Anderson brings his own bus to Cannes, a tradition that allows his cast, including Benicio del Toro, Scarlett Johansson, and Bryan Cranston, to arrive together for the premiere of his latest film, *The Phoenician Scheme*. This marks another milestone in Anderson’s career, with his distinctive filmmaking style blending playfulness and poignancy. Anderson, reflecting on his experiences, discusses his evolving role as a father and his long collaborations with actors like Jason Schwartzman. Despite the industry’s changes, Anderson remains dedicated to making films for adults, confident in his unique approach to filmmaking that sets him apart in today’s landscape.

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SUMMARY: U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio embraced the Vatican’s offer to host Russia-Ukraine peace talks, following Pope Leo XIV’s vow to personally strive for peace. Rubio met Vatican leaders, including Cardinal Matteo Zuppi, appreciating the Holy See’s humanitarian efforts, such as prisoner exchanges and returning Ukrainian children. Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope, urged all sides toward “authentic, just, and lasting peace.” Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin reaffirmed readiness to provide a neutral venue for dialogue after failed Istanbul ceasefire talks. The Vatican, known for diplomatic neutrality and historic peace efforts, stands ready to facilitate negotiations to end the conflict.

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