A Palestinian-origin artificial intelligence engineer has filed a legal complaint against Google in a UK employment tribunal, alleging unfair dismissal for protesting the company’s work with the Israeli government. The engineer, who worked at Google DeepMind’s London office, distributed flyers criticizing Google for supplying military AI to forces accused of genocide and urged colleagues to form a union. He also opposed Google’s 2025 policy reversal that allowed involvement in projects potentially violating international norms.

Google denied the allegations, stating that the employee’s account was inaccurate and that no one is dismissed for expressing opinions or union activity. The case has drawn attention amid growing internal dissent over Google’s defense contracts, including the $1.2 billion Project Nimbus with Israel and Amazon. Several insiders said Google’s AI policy changes have raised ethical concerns, prompting some staff to resign.

Advocacy group Foxglove is supporting the engineer’s case, arguing he sought to restore ethical principles Google had abandoned. The dispute emerges as public skepticism toward AI intensifies across universities and workplaces.

Just four days after U.S. President Donald Trump concluded his visit to China, Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in Beijing for a two-day state visit. He was received at the airport by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. This marks Putin’s 25th visit to China, highlighting Beijing’s growing diplomatic confidence and the close relationship between President Xi Jinping and Putin.

The visit comes as Western nations continue urging China to pressure Russia over the Ukraine war, but Beijing has instead strengthened its strategic partnership with Moscow. Economic and diplomatic cooperation between the two countries has expanded significantly since the war began. Analysts view Putin’s visit, following Trump’s fruitless meeting with Xi, as a signal of China’s independent global stance amid rising tensions around Iran.

During the visit, China and Russia announced joint work on artificial intelligence development and governance frameworks. The trip also coincides with the 25th anniversary of their 2001 Treaty of Good-Neighborliness and Friendly Cooperation, underscoring the durability of their partnership.

Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU) Vice President Sadiq Kayem announced that new international opportunities will soon open for Bangladeshi youth. In a Facebook post on Tuesday, he said that during a bilateral dialogue at Tsinghua University in China, he proposed launching a “Dhaka–Beijing Youth Fellowship.” The meeting involved DUCSU, Tsinghua University administration and student representatives, and Chinese government officials.

The dialogue focused on youth participation and campus governance, youth development and artificial intelligence, and youth missions and opportunities. Both sides emphasized bilateral cooperation, cultural exchange, technological and intellectual collaboration, people-to-people connectivity, and youth leadership development. Participants also highlighted the need for joint efforts to address global challenges such as climate change, technological transformation, inequality, and social instability.

Tsinghua University’s student union president invited Dhaka University to join the Global Youth Dialogue, while DUCSU invited Tsinghua representatives to visit Bangladesh for the upcoming Second International July Conference. Both universities reached consensus on enhancing academic cooperation and expanding higher education and research opportunities for Bangladeshi students in China.

Bangladeshi DJ and singer Sonika has been diagnosed with Hepatitis A and is currently receiving treatment at a private hospital in Banani, Dhaka. The news comes shortly after the death of content creator and actress Karina Kaisar, who also suffered from the same illness. On the night of May 18, Sonika shared her condition with fans through social media, posting a photo from her hospital bed and writing that it would be her home for the next few days.

Following her announcement, fans, followers, and colleagues expressed their wishes for her speedy recovery on social media. Sonika began her career as a professional DJ in 2007 and quickly gained prominence in Bangladesh’s music scene. She performed at the opening ceremony of the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup and was honored in 2013 as the best Bangladeshi female DJ. She also showcased her acting talent in television dramas such as “Last Sequence” and “Triple F” in 2015.

The entertainment community remains concerned as two prominent figures have recently been affected by Hepatitis A, prompting widespread attention to health issues within the industry.

Hollywood actress Hannah Einbinder, known for her role in the comedy-drama series 'Hacks', reaffirmed her support for Palestinian rights during the 'Kering Women in Motion Talks' at the Cannes Film Festival. She said she would continue to speak out for Palestinians despite potential professional risks, emphasizing that fear of being blacklisted would not silence her. Einbinder described speaking up as a responsibility, stating that her career could never outweigh a human life.

She expressed pride in being part of the ongoing voices of Palestinians and their allies, adding that artists have a duty not only to entertain but also to stand against injustice. At Cannes, her new film 'Teenage Sex and Death at Camp Miasma' premiered in the 'Un Certain Regard' section and received a six-minute standing ovation. In the film, she plays 'Chris', an independent filmmaker exploring themes of sexuality, body discomfort, identity, and desire.

Einbinder also reflected on the emotional end of 'Hacks', noting her sadness at saying goodbye to her character Ava. Her outspoken stance on social and political issues continues to distinguish her in Hollywood.

The government of Bangladesh has undertaken multi-dimensional initiatives to advance satellite, space, and drone technologies, according to Fakir Mahbub Anam, Minister of Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology, and Science and Technology. Speaking at a seminar titled “Satellites, Drones and Future Space Technology in Bangladesh” held at the Institution of Engineers, Bangladesh (IEB) in Dhaka on Tuesday, he said the government is working on plans to establish a new low Earth orbit satellite.

The minister emphasized that satellite and drone technologies are no longer luxuries but essential infrastructures for national development, disaster management, agriculture, fisheries, communication, and security. He noted that satellite technology can help forecast disasters, monitor river erosion, enhance agricultural productivity, and ensure the safety of coastal and deep-sea fishermen. The government has already initiated programs to deliver cyclone and weather alerts to fishermen more quickly.

Regarding drones, he said they are now being used beyond photography and entertainment, serving as effective tools for border security, agricultural management, surveying, and disaster response. He called for collaboration among universities, research institutions, and technology sectors to enhance the use of space data and applications.

The Spanish High Court has ruled in favor of pop star Shakira in a long-running tax dispute, canceling a €55 million fine and ordering the Spanish tax authority to return approximately €60 million to her with interest. The court found that the amount had been collected following a 2011 tax disagreement. According to court documents, the dispute centered on whether Shakira qualified as a tax resident of Spain that year.

Under Spanish law, an individual must reside in the country for at least 183 days in a year to be considered a tax resident. Reports cited by the court indicated that Shakira spent only 163 days in Spain in 2011, meaning she was not legally required to pay Spanish taxes for that period. The ruling, issued in mid-April, became public on April 18.

Shakira’s lawyer, José Luis Prada, said the decision came after eight years of hardship, highlighting flaws in the administrative process. The case had drawn attention due to similar tax issues previously faced by her former husband, ex-footballer Gerard Piqué.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to mark a major technological shift, with artificial intelligence (AI) at its core. Hosted across 16 cities in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, the 48-team tournament will begin on June 11 and feature 104 matches. Each team will have its own AI model capable of analyzing opponents’ strategies through video clips, 3D avatars, and real-time data. Coaches will be able to preview potential outcomes of tactical changes, while players will receive detailed performance analyses.

Developed by Lenovo, the “Football AI Pro” system processes hundreds of millions of FIFA data points across more than 2,000 indicators. Analysts suggest this could reduce the technological gap between rich and smaller teams, making competition more balanced. AI will also enhance offside decisions through instant 3D body scans, improving VAR accuracy and transparency for fans.

Beyond the pitch, each stadium will feature a digital twin to monitor crowds, safety, and player health in real time. The tournament is expected to generate over 90 petabytes of data, with autonomous vehicles and humanoid robots assisting in transport and stadium operations.

Renowned South Asian singer Runa Laila and Bangladeshi musician, composer, and director Bappa Majumder have released their first Bengali ghazal titled 'Anayase'. Written by Galib Hasan and composed by Bappa Majumder, the song was published on May 16 at 9 p.m. on Bappa Majumder’s YouTube channel. The music video was also directed by Bappa. A launch event was held the same evening at a club in Banani, Dhaka, hosted by National Film Award-winning singer Konal.

Originally intended to be a solo performance by Runa Laila, the ghazal became a duet at her own request. Bappa Majumder expressed deep gratitude and emotion for the opportunity to sing alongside Runa Laila, describing it as a dream come true. Runa Laila praised the lyrics, composition, and Bappa’s dedication to perfection, extending her best wishes to him and lyricist Galib Hasan.

The release follows Runa Laila’s recent recognition at the 15th International Film Festival in Delhi, where she received the 'Minar-e-Delhi' award. She is also scheduled to perform on BTV’s 'Ananda Mela' during the upcoming Eid celebrations.

Bangladesh continues to rely on outdated security systems while many countries integrate artificial intelligence, smart sensors, and radar technologies into their safety infrastructure. Experts say limited technical skills, lack of modern equipment, and weak cybersecurity have prevented the country’s bomb detection and security systems from becoming fully modernized. In contrast, advanced nations use AI-based scanners, explosive sensors, drones, and automated radar systems to identify threats quickly.

Recent bomb scares at key sites, including Shahjalal International Airport, have exposed the limitations of Bangladesh’s manual inspection methods. Analysts emphasize that modern security depends on technology-driven surveillance rather than manpower alone. Reports also warn of rising risks from technology-based explosives and cyber vulnerabilities.

Experts recommend immediate investment in AI-enabled scanners, smart cameras, and drone surveillance at airports, seaports, and government facilities. They stress the need for skilled technologists and internationally trained security personnel to build long-term capacity. Without such modernization, Bangladesh’s security infrastructure may face increasing technological risks.

Karina Kaiser, a content creator and actress who passed away in India, was laid to rest in Abdullahpur village of Gazaria upazila, Munshiganj, on Monday morning. Her final funeral prayer took place at 7 a.m. behind Bhoberchar bus stand, followed by burial in the garden of her grandmother’s house. She was the daughter of former national footballer Kaiser Hamid and Lopa Kaiser.

According to family sources, after public tributes and funeral prayers in Dhaka, her body was brought to Gazaria late Sunday night. Although her maternal home is in Puran Bausia, the burial was arranged at her grandmother Dr. Zohra Khanam Parul’s residence in Abdullahpur. Local announcements invited residents to bid farewell to the beloved local figure.

The family kept the funeral private, restricting media and mobile access at the site. Karina’s brother Sadat Hamid told reporters that the decision aimed to avoid publicity and large gatherings. Karina had died last Friday in a Chennai hospital following prolonged liver complications, and her body arrived in Dhaka on Sunday afternoon before being taken to Gazaria.

Bangladesh celebrated World Telecommunication and Information Society Day in Dhaka under the theme “Stability through connection, strength through resilience.” The event, held at the BTRC headquarters in Agargaon, featured a seminar where ICT Minister Fakir Mahbub Anam said the government considers the information and communication technology sector a major engine for national growth and employment. He highlighted initiatives in AI, hardware, semiconductors, cybersecurity, data centers, startups, and digital services to strengthen Bangladesh’s position in technology production and exports.

Adviser to the Prime Minister Rehan Asif Asad emphasized developing world-class 5G and nationwide fiber infrastructure within five years and mentioned plans for a national data bank and unified digital identity. Other speakers stressed digital safety for women and children, combating misinformation, and expanding AI and IoT use in public services. Officials also underscored digital sovereignty, cybersecurity, and paperless administration.

The two-day event included a telecom and technology fair with 30 participating organizations and an online essay competition. The International Telecommunication Union’s Secretary-General, in a video message, called for stronger digital infrastructure and global cooperation.

A daylong cybersecurity workshop was held on Saturday at the Bangladesh Army University of Science and Technology (BAUST) campus in Saidpur. The event, organized by the university’s Computer Science and Engineering (CSE) Department in collaboration with the Institutional Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC) and Creative IT Institute of Dhaka, was attended by 60 students from the CSE department.

The workshop aimed to raise awareness about cybersecurity, provide practical knowledge on network security, and enhance students’ skills to address modern technology-based security challenges. Rafsan Anwar, CEO of the Networking and Cyber Security Department at Creative IT Institute, served as the keynote speaker, while Shihab Hossain Rafat, a senior faculty member and cybersecurity specialist, conducted hands-on training sessions.

The program, chaired by Professor Dr. Nakib Hayat Chowdhury, head of the CSE department, featured four sessions covering computer and network security fundamentals, web application security, ethical hacking, social engineering, incident response, and career opportunities in cybersecurity. Certificates were distributed to participants, and organizers reported strong enthusiasm and positive feedback from students.

OpenAI and the Government of Malta have announced a partnership that will provide every citizen and resident free access to ChatGPT Plus for one year. The initiative, unveiled on Saturday, marks OpenAI’s first collaboration with a national government. Access will be granted through a government-led AI literacy program, with participants required to complete a free online course titled “AI for All,” developed by the University of Malta. The first phase of the program is scheduled to launch in May, and the Malta Digital Innovation Authority will oversee the distribution of subscriptions.

According to the Malta Digital Innovation Authority, the course aims to help people understand what artificial intelligence is, its capabilities and limitations, and how to use it responsibly in daily life and work. Malta’s Minister for Economy, Enterprise and Strategic Projects, Silvio Schembri, said the initiative combines education with access to advanced digital tools to make AI practical for families, students, and workers. George Osborne, head of OpenAI for Countries, described the partnership as a model for how nations can empower citizens to benefit from AI’s transformative potential.

The announcement places Malta among a growing number of governments exploring ways to integrate AI into public education and services, following similar initiatives in Iceland, Greece, and the United Kingdom.

Popular Bangladeshi content creator and actress Karina Kaiser has died in Chennai, India, after suffering from liver complications and other health issues. Her body was flown to Dhaka on Friday afternoon via a US-Bangla Airlines flight. According to family sources, three funeral prayers were scheduled in the capital: the first after Maghrib at Banani DOHS Jame Mosque, the second at 8 p.m. at Banani Darbar Sharif Mosque, and the third at 10 p.m. at the Central Shaheed Minar, where fans and colleagues could pay their respects.

A fourth funeral prayer will be held on Monday morning in Abdullahpur, Gazaria upazila of Munshiganj, followed by burial at the family graveyard. Karina gained wide popularity among young audiences through her lively social media presence and realistic content. She also worked in OTT productions and television dramas, earning recognition as both an actress and screenwriter. Her notable works include the web series “Internship” and the film “36-24-36.”

Her untimely death has cast a shadow over the cultural community, with colleagues, directors, and fans expressing grief and condolences online.