Milan Fashion Week’s Best Looks

The top moments from the Italian brands.

Fendi, Gucci, Prada: so many vowels, so many good looks to choose from. BAZAAR does the hard work for you, distilling the shows down to their essence with several standout looks from each of the major collections. See what's happening on the runways of Milan this week.

Gucci

Gucci

Alessandro Michele is full of surprises. The designer has reconfigured the Gucci show calendar so it falls off the regular lineup—with the Aria collection showing last April, and the brand's latest, Love Parade, walking last night in Los Angeles. While there are certainly logistical reasons for the changes, from an editorial perspective, it allows a label to really make a splash. And splash Gucci did.

The surprise we're referring to isn't a simple shift in timing, it's a peek into the creative mind of Michele and the life and times that built him. "Mum worked in the film industry as an assistant in a production company. I remember all the stories she told me, and the details and the sparkles, about that dream factory," he explains in the show notes.

"There was the alabaster paleness of Marilyn Monroe...There were the black satin gloves of Rita Hayworth and Veronica Lake’s velvet hair, as well as the bewitching allure of Rock Hudson and Kim Novak’s dizzying transformative power." That move star mystique translated directly onto the Hollywood Walk of Fame, where models, Jared Leto, and Macaulay Culkin stomped under street lights in front of a star-stacked audience. A modern fascination with social media and paparazzi photos has brought the idea of celebrity back down to earth, but Michele is more interested in the concept of actor as deity.

"Hollywood is, after all, a Greek temple populated by pagan divinities... Here actors and actresses are acknowledged as heroes of the myth: hybrid creatures with the power to hold divine transcendence and mortal existence at the same time." A place where stars shine on red carpets and we never see them as mere mortals getting Starbucks. A place where there are no sweatpants and yoga leggings, just diaphanous gowns, pink satin tuxes, sequins that can burn your retinas, and coats as big as egos. Welcome to Hollywood by way of Gucci.

Gucci

Bottega Veneta

Bottega Veneta

For round three of Bottega Veneta's salon shows, following stops in London and Berlin, Daniel Lee showed up in the Motor City to showcase his latest—and many notable names followed him there. Mary J Blige, Lil Kim, Burna Boy, Kehlani, Selah Marley, Zazie Beetz, Slick Woods, and Sasha Lane were just some of the major players in attendance.

Set to techno club music at the Michigan Building (a gilded former theatre), the runway was also star-studded, with Lourdes Leon (offspring of one Madonna) casually taking a stroll down the catwalk. The palette was mostly black and white with hits of orange and Bottega green (a color so synonymous with Lee's Bottega it is now being referenced this way).

The look is street sporty—think parkas and denim sets—against 90s influenced halter necks and sparkly little dresses and shirt and skirt sets. Bodycon, a look that was pervasive all season, also showed up on this runway on one shoulder and short dresses. In other words, these are 'fits that are made to dance the night away to some techno beats.

If you find yourself in Detroit, Bottega's reign isn't ending with one runway show. The brand set up Bottega Firehouse on 1201 Bagley Street. It will be open until January and features a reading room by Asmaa Walton, design works by Chris Schanck and Aratani Fay, Underground Music Academy, Substudio textiles, Donut Shop furnishings, Hamtramck Ceramck ceramics, relief sculptures by Sophie Eisner and printed matter curated by Ruben Cardenas.

Bottega Veneta

Versace by Fendi

Versace by Fendi

Stop everything: We are officially living in a parallel fashion universe. Donatella Versace, Kim Jones, and Silvia Venturini Fendi switched places for an epic fashion event that was something far fresher than the industry’s collaborations of yore. Fendace, a 50-look Frankenstein collection composed of Jones’s and Venturini Fendi’s riff on Versace and Versace’s take on Fendi, was conceived as a “celebration of Italian fashion and a to-hell-with-it disruption of the established order of things.” This merging of competitors, particularly two iconic houses not under the same ownership, just “isn’t done” in fashion—until now.

Fendi, Versace, and Jones are friends and colleagues, and after a tough year, they crossed party lines to have a little fun. The creative directors invited one another into their family archives for inspiration and crafted their take on the other’s DNA, honoring the work of Gianni Versace and Karl Lagerfeld in turn. Versace for Fendi melded the Fendi double-F monogram with its own Grecian key motif, while Fendi for Versace used the brand’s signature safety pins and sexiness with more of a punk rock edge. The event of Milan Fashion Week was, refreshingly, about fashion for style’s sake: “It’s about the need for sincerity in fashion today rather than strategy.”

Versace by Fendi

Versace

Versace

Versace is all about new interpretations of signature codes, whether it be the new Grecian key motif, La Greca—launched last season—or the brand’s signature Medusa emblem. For spring 2022, Versace began with its foulard, a silk scarf that can be worn as a headscarf, knotted into a top, constructed into a bustier dress, or worn freely as a pajama-esque set. How, you may wonder, does a simple silk scarf lead you to Dua Lipa, Emrata, Lourdes Leon, a neon color palette, and some of the sexiest looks of the season?

That would be the magic of Donatella Versace. From Dua Lipa’s opening look of a slashed, tailored suit-cum-party dress to the prints, bold fluorescent shades, and all the way to the pop star’s hot-pink, two-piece sequined set for the finale, Versace’s vision for spring 2022 was part red carpet, part Internet sensation, and a great night out in Miami and Milan—all in one.

Versace

Dolce & Gabbana

Dolce & Gabbana

After a year of laying low, fashion lovers are finally turning their attention to post-lockdown glam—which couldn’t be better news for maximalists Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana. The duo has never stopped being inspired by a more-is-more aesthetic. This collection was packed with the brand’s sexy energy, cheeky touches, and signature whimsy, but it was also decidedly more edgy and youthful than ever before—keeping Gen Z in mind. The designers dove into the past to look forward, studying their collections from the year 2000, when Y2K mania ushered in all things over-the-top.

The result? Lace, camo, leopard prints, and crystal covered everything. After a spectacle after the Venice Film Festival for Alta Moda and a collaboration with Harris Reed and Iman on the Met Gala red carpet, Dolce & Gabbana just proved once more that they have no issue keeping their clothes focused on the future—targeting a younger customer than ever before while still giving their hardcore fanbase what they crave.

Dolce & Gabbana

Emilio Pucci

Emilio Pucci

Many people can spot a Pucci print from across the room—or the beach. That’s what the design team was musing on when they went back to the resort-forward way of thinking exemplified by founder Emilio Pucci for spring 2022. The spirit of kaleidoscopic beachwear goes hand in hand with a certain sort of bold freedom, especially when those signature swirls come embroidered. Also on the label’s mind? The iconic shape of the silk scarf, which has become synonymous with Pucci for decades.

We saw its core shape reappear in the form of halter-neck cutout dresses and maxi gowns constructed of wide swaths of flowing fabric. The difference between the Pucci of your mother’s closet and today, however, is a newly sharpened and structured impact that’s graphically intriguing. Patterned minidresses may seem like they’re for maximalists only, but when they’re cut so cleanly, they have a wide appeal even for the print-averse minimalist.

Emilio Pucci

Salvatore Ferragamo

Salvatore Ferragamo

Salvatore Ferragamo offered for spring 2022 what the Florentine label called an “Italianate rainbow,” which translated to soothing shades of ochre, rust, mustard, cream, and peony, rather than the traditional ROYGBIV spectrum the founder once famously put on a pair of suede platforms he designed for Judy Garland.

The excitement came through unexpected details and styling, like a dramatic asymmetrical side cutout on a Grecian dress or a double-breasted blazer tucked into high waisted shorts. A repurposed 1970s Ferragamo floral foulard overprinted on a loose-yarn, tiger-striped jacquard created in collaboration with Parisian artist Julien Colombier was another key motif.

Salvatore Ferragamo

Tod's

Tod's

Quality, utilitarianism, and craftsmanship all come to mind immediately when thinking of Tod’s—so bold uses of color, platform loafers, and crop tops are a fresh take. The spring 2022 collection wasn’t short on luxe, wearable pieces, but the lightness evoked by the bright, new elements was intended to recall the world of sports and suggest an airiness intended to help us all forget the troubles of the past year and look toward a brighter future.

As for the accessories, sandals and sneakers were meant for pounding the pavement, although they had a chunkier, cool-kid energy. Boots and loafers came with a heftier, higher platform and sat in contrast to daintier kitten heels and the label’s signature asset: super-luxe handbags.

Tod's

MM6 Maison Margiela

MM6 Maison Margiela

You know that saying, "He's playing chess, and they're playing checkers?" The latest collection from MM6 Maison Margiela kind of did both. On the surface, a checkerboard motif took literal riffs on pizzeria tablecloths, The Queen's Gambit, and the commedia dell'arte costumes of the Italian Renaissance.

But look a few moves ahead, and the slouchy slacks, layered suiting, and high-contrast color pops weren't just here for a good time—they will remain in your wardrobe for the long haul. As for the kooky spiderweb worn as a tank top? I mean ... we're knot mad about it.

MM6 Maison Margiela

Missoni

Missoni

Well, that's new! Missoni's latest show marks Alberto Caliri's design debut, and a true change of the guard. Gone are the stretchy zig-zag clings with long sleeves and maxi hems that covered everything except the wearer's excellent taste. Now that same iconic fabric has been slashed and stretched into bodycon cut-outs, neo-Britney triangle tops, and a real reverence for underboob. Some fashion shakers wondered, for a female-power-and-ease brand like Missoni, what's bare flesh got to do with it? Others (including our own Nikki Ogunnaike) loved the vixen vibes, and the idea that TikTok teens can covet the same textiles as their '70s idols. (The DIY potential here is also off the charts, especially for all that Missoni x Target lurking on Depop just begging to be slashed and re-sewn.) Meanwhile, purists can skip ahead to the final looks: metallic maxi gowns for everyone.

Missoni

Giorgio Armani

Giorgio Armani

Seafoam green, oceanic blue, and calming shades of cloudy white: These are just a few of the hues Giorgio Armani delved into for the spring 2022 show. As a fixture of the Italian fashion world for decades, the label has become known for its singular shapes and streamlined aesthetic. Set against the backdrop of an endless ocean with a runway that mimicked the color of a sandy beach, the label showed all the signatures of its household codes, from oversized suiting to immaculately tailored, embellished gowns in frothy fabrics that seemed to float down the catwalk. Armani’s most surprising takeaway this season? Harem pants are back. But this time around, they come in delicious silk and chiffon fabrications, with dreamlike prints in jewel tones.

Giorgio Armani

Philosophy di Lorenzo Serafini

Philosophy di Lorenzo Serafini

We can always count on Philosophy for a few things each season: an unbridled dedication to romanticism, a heavy dose of femininity, and an unwavering and unexpected punch of prep. For spring 2022, creative director Lorenzo Serafini took us on a trip to the '70s, as he envisioned it.

Models wore plush leather fringed jackets in shades of periwinkle and cognac, alongside flared floral sets, lamé button-down dresses, and easy deep-neck tops with simple bikinis peeking out. Vibrant hues like carnelian, emerald, and royal purple were a nod to the loud and individualistic style of the '70s, but for the dedicated Philosophy fan, there was no shortage of ruffled dresses, romantic frills and all, in subtle shades of lacy white. —Kristen Bateman

Philosophy di Lorenzo Serafini

Prada

Prada

Leave to Prada to make sex intellectual. Miuccia Prada and Raf Simons’s spring 2022 collection may be titled Seduction, Stripped Down, but there were none of the bra tops and naked dresses seen on other runways in this show simulcast from Milan and Shanghai. In the Prada-verse, the heels are always kitten height, and sex appeal is all about suggestion.

The co-creative directors reduced tropes of classical femininity like lingerie and corsetry to their purest forms and re-contextualized them. So the curve of an underwire was applied to a polo-collar sweater, while graphic tees and jackets came embellished with corset laces. Many of the aforementioned looks trailed anomalous strips of couture silk, which the show notes poetically called “the memory of a train.”

Prada

Sportmax

Sportmax

For every instance of cottagecore romance spotted on the Sportmax runway, there was a dose of unapologetic, here-to-take-up-space attitude for counterbalance. Corsetry, scooped-out necklines, raw-edged tulle, and dainty florals were the stuff of sublime sweetness—and best taken in small doses.

The presence of that tougher stuff added interest and intrigue, making one wonder what the woman behind the clothes is all about. Wide-leg trousers and oversized jackets were ready to work, but in a slouchy way that didn't impersonate menswear. Rather, it was sensual and soft, clearly for her and not stolen from the boys.

Sportmax

Blumarine

Blumarine

The Y2K style renaissance was out in full force for Blumarine’s spring 2022 collection. Butterfly motifs emerged on necklaces, supersize belts, and tie-on tops, while a symphony of pastels took the form of gossamer-thin V-cut gowns in buttercup yellow and bubblegum-pink halter-neck dresses printed with roses. Nicola Brognano’s creations looked a lot like something the pop stars of the early '00s would easily gravitate to—Britney and J.Lo included—but we think Gen Z would be equally enchanted by a pair of chiffon low-waist cargo pants and a baby crop top.

You only have to scroll through TikTok to see that. With the transparent oversized glasses, silk head scarves, big hoop earrings, and low-slung belts against patchwork denim and shrunken bomber jackets, there was proof, too, that styling has a lot to do with Blumarine’s early-aughts aesthetic. Lotta Volkova, the stylist behind Vetements' fast rise, was behind it. Slap on one of the brand’s bedazzled logo belts and consider it a celebration of more is more.

Blumarine

Max Mara

Max Mara

We didn’t quite get a “revenge summer” of carefree travel to far-flung holiday destinations thanks to Delta, and what next summer will look like is anyone’s guess at this point.

But Max Mara made a very chic case for escape being a state of mind. The brand took cues from author Françoise Sagan’s uniform of workwear classics like fisherman smocks, laborers jackets, mechanics overalls, and carpenter pants, which were given the runway treatment in gabardine, canvas, poplin, and indigo denim with contrast top stitching.

You may recall her novel Bonjour Tristesse from college French, but did you know that Sagan wrote the existentialist masterpiece as a 17-year-old forced to spend the summer of 1953 at home in Paris while her family went away on holiday, after failing her year-end exams? Time to start preparing our writer’s wardrobe for summer 2022.

Max Mara

Etro

Etro

Say “magic carpet ride” and you either get Disney’s Aladdin (1992) or Steppenwolf’s hit song (1968). Both applied to Etro’s newest collection, which sewed its signature textile mix onto hippie-approved rainbow crochet and rave-worthy vinyl jackets alike. Veronica Etro did some denim-and-track pant fusions, too, which will hopefully inspire DIY fashion fans worldwide to remix their old clothes instead of chucking them entirely.

A whole new world? Not exactly. Etro stuck pretty close to its DNA. And with both runway newbies and megastars like Joan Smalls on the catwalk, the brand made the case that boho chic isn’t going anywhere, and that it’s just as appropriate on a new mom (we see you, Grace Elizabeth!) as a teen starlet whose wish is every fashion brand’s command.

Etro

Jil Sander

Jil Sander

Lucie and Luke Meier are designing clothing that women want to wear—intellectual women, chic women, choose your elevated adjective. The palette for spring 2022 was soft, as if filtered: pale greens, peach, buttercup yellow, ivory. There were strong jackets layered over trousers or jeans, oversized pieces, nipped and tailored pieces, a perfect sweetheart-neckline white dress, knitted separates, and a crochet series.

Blouses were wrapped and textural—nothing was as expected. To wit, there was even a zebra print and some sequins. In accessories, the brand’s new Cannolo bag was cylindrical, mirroring jewelry that leveraged circles in gold and geometric patterns. Mule boots will be a winner this season; they look cool and are easy to wear. The message was this: What appears simple probably isn't. Still waters run deep, as they say.

Jil Sander

Roberto Cavalli

Roberto Cavalli

Today was a big one for the Roberto Cavalli label—it marked the first runway collection under the creative direction of Fausto Puglisi. Puglisi is a dream fit for the brand—an Italian designer who embraces sensuality in clothing and clearly appreciates an animal print.

He dug into the extensive Cavalli archives and came up with many references to the ’70s—dresses were slim and cut on the bias, with cutouts and single shoulders. All ripe for after dark. If the Cavalli girl needs a break from the dance floor, boxy suits looked just as cool. As the show notes said, the collection, “shouts ‘I’m the party.’” There's never been a better time to bring back some fun and remember you had it in you all the time.

Roberto Cavalli

Brunello Cucinelli

Brunello Cucinelli

For many women, the current vibe is “love thy loungewear as thyself.” Brunello Cucinelli is cool with that—but he’s going to give you a major upgrade. The Italian label went into full slouch mode with its latest collection, which mixes slinky metallic knitwear and silky pleated separates that feel like pj's, but look like you’ve consulted a famous Italian tailor. (Maybe because one made these clothes ...) And though some models did wear sweatbands and tube socks as part of their looks, these pieces are made to be so easily cool, you can get dressed for work without breaking a sweat. Pay special attention to the suiting and square-toed ballet flats, along with a red embroidered varsity sweater that’s truly game for anything.

Brunello Cucinelli

Fendi

Fendi

Kim Jones had nearly zero ramp-up to creating his own Fendi ethos. His Fendi woman has been unabashedly glamorous and achingly cool since he debuted his first collection in the depths of the pandemic. While she has an appreciation for the past, she most certainly doesn’t live there. That throwback mentality showed up for spring 2022 with a collaboration with the estate of illustrators Antonio Lopez and Juan Ramos.

The ’70s have been enjoying a bit of a renaissance, so Studio 54-worthy dresses that leveraged Lopez's iconic drawings felt right on time. “While I’ve been looking at Karl’s legacy at the house, I’ve also been looking around him, at his contemporaries—at who he was interested in,” Jones explained. “Lopez was a friend of Karl’s and has always been someone who inspired me. He was forward thinking, inclusive, looked up to by everyone from Andy Warhol to Steven Meisel and David Hockney.

I wanted to introduce him to a new generation.” In keeping with the era (through a modern lens), there were also fringe dresses, suiting with bikini-inspired tops layered underneath, bold-patterned furs with matching bags, and sheer black lace gowns. It was smart dressing that made a statement—and it was the perfect start to a week in Milano.

Fendi

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Trump Administration Issues New Travel Ban Targeting 12 Countries

A newly signed proclamation bans the entry of nationals from specified countries, citing security concerns.

On June 6, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump signed a proclamation instituting a travel ban affecting nationals from 12 countries, a move the administration claims is necessary to fortify national security against potential threats from foreign terrorists. The travel ban is set to come into effect on June 9, 2025, at 11:01 AM EST.

The travel restrictions apply to foreign nationals who are outside the United States on the effective date and do not possess a valid visa. The proclamation explicitly states that any immigrant or non-immigrant visa issued prior to this date will not be revoked under this new regulation.

Countries Subject to Full Travel Ban

The complete travel ban encompasses the following countries:

Afghanistan
Myanmar
Chad
Republic of the Congo
Equatorial Guinea
Eritrea
Haiti
Iran
Libya
Somalia
Sudan
Yemen

Countries Subject to Partial Travel Ban

In addition, a partial travel ban affects certain countries where entry is suspended for immigrants and specific temporary visa holders, namely those holding B-1, B-2, B-1/B-2, F, M, and J visas. The countries facing partial restrictions include:

Burundi
Cuba
Laos
Sierra Leone
Togo
Turkmenistan
Venezuela

Exceptions to the Travel Ban

There are several exceptions outlined in the proclamation. These include:

Lawful permanent residents of the United States
Dual nationals
Diplomats traveling on valid non-immigrant visas
Athletes and members of athletic teams, along with their immediate relatives, traveling for major sporting events such as the World Cup or Olympics
Immediate family immigrant visas
Adoption cases
Afghan Special Immigrant Visas
Special Immigrant Visas for U.S. government employees
Immigrant visas designated for ethnic and religious minorities facing persecution in Iran

Potential Future Travel Restrictions

In March 2025, reports indicated that the Trump administration was evaluating travel restrictions on a list of 41 countries. Notably, 17 of the countries now included in the travel ban were also part of that preliminary assessment, while Burundi and Togo were newly added. Countries that were considered in the earlier list but are not currently affected include North Korea, Syria, South Sudan, Angola, and several others.

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Japan Grapples with Rice Shortage Amid Soaring Prices

Thai Army Asserts Readiness Amid Border Tensions with Cambodia

Thai Military Emphasizes Patience in Cambodian Border Dispute

Xi Jinping and Donald Trump Hold First Call Since Trade War Began

Global News Roundup: From Ukraine's strategic military strikes and Russia's demands and Tensions Escalate in Ukraine, to serious legal issues faced by Britons in Bali and Trump's media criticism, the latest developments highlight a turbulent landscape

‘Vibe Coding’ Emerges as the New DIY Trend

AI Pioneer Yoshua Bengio Warns Models Can Deceive Users

Big Four Firms Rush to Create AI Auditing Systems

Musk’s xAI Pursues $113 Billion Valuation in New Share Sale

Walmart Increases Revenue Despite Shrinking Workforce

Hims & Hers Plans UK and EU Launch of Replica Obesity Drugs

Toyota to Acquire Supplier in $33 Billion Buyout

U.S. Reduces Military Presence in Syria

Trump Demands Iran End All Uranium Enrichment in Nuclear Talks

BlackRock-Backed Fintech Aims to Become Europe’s Charles Schwab

China Accuses US of Violating Trade Truce

Panama Port Owner Balances US-China Pressures

Macron Lightheartedly Addresses Viral 'Shove' Incident in Indonesia

Cambodia Decides to Bring Border Dispute with Thailand to World Court

Prime Minister Hun Manet announces intention to file complaint with the International Court of Justice following military clashes.

Cambodia has formally announced its decision to bring a long-standing border dispute with Thailand before the International Court of Justice (ICJ), prompted by recent military engagements between the two nations' armed forces.

Prime Minister Hun Manet addressed the Cambodian National Assembly on Monday, stating that the government intends to file a complaint with the ICJ as a means to resolve the territorial issue definitively.

Prime Minister Hun Manet emphasized that even if Thailand does not concur with the move, Cambodia will proceed with the ICJ filing in order to eliminate any ambiguity surrounding the disputed areas.

This announcement comes after a shift in strategy, as Hun Manet had earlier suggested that Cambodia would first pursue dialogue aimed at resolving the undemarcated border sections through discussions with Thailand.

The dispute primarily concerns three ancient Khmer ruins located near the border in Surin Province, which Cambodia claims as part of its territory in Oddar Meanchey Province.

These sites are known as Ta Muan Thom, Ta Muan Toch, and Ta Kwai in Cambodia, while referred to as Ta Moan Thom, Ta Moan Toch, and Ta Kro Bei in Thailand.

The broader area of contention includes the Emerald Triangle, bordering Thailand's Ubon Ratchathani Province, Cambodia's Preah Vihear Province, and Champassak Province in Laos.

Tensions escalated recently due to armed confrontations between Thai and Cambodian soldiers in the vicinity of Ta Muan Thom and at Chong Bok, a steep valley in Nam Yuen district of Ubon Ratchathani.

The Thai military reported a stand-off involving soldiers from both nations, which culminated in a brief exchange of gunfire but did not lead to further escalation at that time.

Army spokesman Major General Winthai Suvaree expressed opposition to Cambodia’s decision to escalate the issue to the World Court, suggesting that the urgent priority should be focused on peaceful coexistence and conflict avoidance along the contested border rather than legal proceedings.

Both nations have expressed commitments to resolving border disputes through peaceful means, despite the ongoing tensions and differing claims over territory.

The Joint Boundary Commission (JBC), established to address and mediate border-related issues between Thailand and Cambodia, has been the primary framework for dialogue, although the unresolved areas have continued to generate significant friction.

The diplomatic landscape in Southeast Asia remains complex, as both nations navigate their historical claims and contemporary political considerations regarding national sovereignty and bilateral relations.

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Trump’s Tariffs Predicted to Stall Global Economic Growth

South Korea’s President-Elect Expected to Take Softer Line on Trump and North Korea

Center-Left Candidate Projected to Win South Korean Presidency

Trump’s China Strategy Remains a Geopolitical Puzzle

Eurozone Inflation Falls Below ECB Target to 1.9%

Call for a New Chapter in Globalisation Emerges

Blackstone and Rivals Diverge on Private Equity Strategy

Ukraine Executes Long-Range Drone Strikes on Russian Airbases

Operation 'Spiderweb' targets strategic bombers across five Russian regions with 117 drones

On June 1, 2025, Ukraine conducted a coordinated drone assault on five Russian military airbases, marking one of the most extensive long-range operations since the onset of the conflict.

The operation, codenamed 'Spiderweb,' was orchestrated by Ukraine's Security Service over an 18-month period and involved the deployment of 117 first-person view (FPV) drones.

The targeted airbases—Belaya in Irkutsk Oblast, Dyagilevo in Ryazan Oblast, Ivanovo Severny in Ivanovo Oblast, Olenya in Murmansk Oblast, and Ukrainka in Amur Oblast—are known to house strategic aircraft, including Tu-95, Tu-22M3, and Tu-160 bombers, as well as A-50 airborne early warning and control aircraft.

Ukrainian officials reported that the strikes resulted in damage or destruction to over 40 military aircraft, accounting for approximately 34% of Russia’s strategic cruise missile carriers.

The estimated financial impact of the operation is around $7 billion.

The drones were covertly transported into Russian territory, concealed within wooden structures mounted on trucks.

These mobile units were positioned near the targeted airfields.

At the designated time, the structures’ roofs were remotely activated to release the drones, which then proceeded to their respective targets.

Ukrainian operatives involved in the operation were reportedly extracted from Russia prior to the commencement of the attacks.

One of the most notable aspects of the operation was the strike on Belaya Air Base in Eastern Siberia, located over 4,300 kilometers from the Ukrainian border.

This represents the longest-range drone attack carried out by Ukraine to date.

Satellite imagery and local reports confirmed significant damage at the site, including the destruction of multiple Tu-95 and Tu-22M3 bombers.

The Russian Ministry of Defense acknowledged the attacks, stating that aircraft were damaged and fires were ignited at airbases in the Irkutsk and Murmansk regions.

The ministry also reported repelling strikes in the Amur, Ivanovo, and Ryazan regions.

Independent verification of the full extent of the damage remains pending.

The operation coincided with ongoing peace talks between Ukrainian and Russian delegations in Istanbul.

Ukrainian officials have expressed skepticism regarding Russia’s commitment to the negotiations, citing the timing of the attacks and the lack of prior communication about Russia’s negotiation proposals.

This operation follows a series of Ukrainian efforts targeting Russian military infrastructure, including previous drone strikes on airbases and strategic assets.

The use of domestically produced FPV drones and innovative deployment methods underscores Ukraine’s evolving tactics in the conflict.

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South Africa: "First Black Bank" Collapses after Being Looted by Owners

BOXING’S BIGGEST SCANDAL JUST GOT SCIENTIFIC - KHELIF’S DNA TEST BLOWS UP PARIS GAMES

"That's Disgusting, Don’t Say It Again": The Trump Joke That Made the President Boil

It’s every columnist’s dream: write something so sharp it slices through the noise, goes viral across social media and Wall Street alike—and ends up ruffling the feathers of the President of the United States. That’s exactly what happened to Financial Times opinion editor Robert Armstrong, when a seemingly routine article earlier this month birthed the term TACO, an acronym for Trump Always Chickens Out.

The phrase, a play on the popular Mexican dish, was Armstrong’s way of describing Donald Trump’s now-predictable pattern: threatening to impose steep tariffs, only to back down shortly after. “Markets have learned that the U.S. administration doesn’t tolerate economic pain well,” Armstrong wrote. “It retreats once tariffs start to hurt. That’s the TACO theory—Trump Always Chickens Out.”

And just like that, TACO was born.

It didn’t take long for the term to go viral. Financial feeds on X (formerly Twitter) were soon flooded with memes, hashtags, and mock analyses. Investors began jokingly referring to “Taco Trades”—buying stocks low when Trump rattled markets with tariff threats, and cashing in when he predictably reversed course. The existence of a taco emoji only helped the meme take off.

Then came Wednesday.

During a press briefing in the Oval Office, Trump was asked about TACO. He hadn’t heard of it—and he did not like it.

“I chicken out? Never heard that before,” Trump barked. “That’s disgusting. Don’t ever say that again.”

He was reportedly furious afterward, scolding his aides for not alerting him to the joke circulating at his expense. According to White House sources, the president’s anger stemmed not only from the ridicule itself, but from what it attacked: his self-styled image as a tough-as-nails negotiator and dealmaker, the very persona he built in The Art of the Deal.

Insiders added that Trump felt the nickname undermined what he views as a strategic trade tactic. He even tried to clarify during the same press event: that he often sets intentionally “ridiculously high” tariff rates to pressure other countries into making concessions—then backs off if they comply.

Still, the damage was done.

“The joke clearly got under his skin,” one White House source told CNN. “It shows a fundamental misunderstanding of how he uses threats as leverage. And frankly, Trump doesn’t tolerate being seen as weak—so the idea that people think he ‘chickens out’ stings hard.”

Whatever Trump’s intentions, Wall Street has largely stopped taking his tariff threats at face value. Last Tuesday, markets surged after Trump once again postponed imposing 50% tariffs on the EU—just days after threatening them. A similar rally followed Wednesday, after a federal court ruled many of Trump’s tariffs illegal. Though the administration immediately appealed and secured a temporary freeze on the ruling pending a June 9 hearing, the pattern repeated itself yet again.

As for Robert Armstrong, he was stunned by the wildfire spread of his TACO theory.

“The mystery of social and traditional media remains utterly beyond me,” he said on the Financial Times’ popular podcast Unhedged. Still, he offered a tongue-in-cheek warning:

“What I really hope doesn’t happen is that Trump stops chickening out because of what I wrote. Let’s be clear: his retreats are the right thing to do. They’re worth celebrating. Three cheers for chickening out of bad policy.”

In the end, what began as a clever acronym has become a symbolic critique of Trump’s trade strategy—and a rare moment where a financial columnist found himself under the President’s skin, simply by calling his bluff.

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Paris Saint-Germain's Greatest Triumph Is Football’s Lowest Point

The UEFA Champions League final has always been a competitive match—until last night. Paris Saint-Germain demolished Inter Milan five–nil in a surreal, one-sided, and unprecedented blowout. It wasn’t just the largest scoreline in Champions League final history—it was an absurd mismatch. Even a Swiss Cup final between Basel and a third-division team of part-timers would likely be closer.

This wasn’t expected. PSG were favorites, but Inter had previously entered finals as underdogs and held their own—like their strong showing against Manchester City two years ago. This time, Inter weren’t just beaten—they were erased. It was so humiliating that some fans may wish they’d lost the semifinal to Barcelona instead. Calling it a mismatch is an understatement.

There have been one-sided finals before, but the losing teams still walked away with pride. In 2017, Real Madrid beat Juventus four–one—but it was one–one at halftime. Porto’s three–nil win over Monaco in 2004? First goal came in the thirty-ninth minute. Even Milan’s famous four–nil win over Barcelona in 1994 had a fighting Barca side. Inter offered nothing. Not even for a second.

So what went wrong? Inter had no injuries, no suspensions, and fielded their best lineup. Coach Simone Inzaghi used the same system that defeated Bayern and Barcelona. Yes, Inter is the oldest team in the tournament and played on multiple fronts—but fatigue doesn’t explain this collapse. They had two full weeks to rest and prepare. They just didn’t show up.

And maybe that’s because PSG were just that good. This wasn’t just dominance—it was something far beyond expectations. Credit goes to coach Luis Enrique, who has slowly built a cohesive, ego-free squad over the past two years. It’s proof you don’t need superstar names to win the Champions League—just a team willing to work for each other.

PSG’s journey this season was brutal. They had the toughest group stage draw and lost early matches against Arsenal, Atlético, and Bayern. At one point in early 2025, they were ranked twenty-fifth. Then came the turning point: down two–nil against Manchester City, they mounted a stunning comeback and won four–two.

From there, they rolled forward. A convincing win in Stuttgart, a comeback at Anfield, surviving Villa’s fightback, and then eliminating Arsenal—who had just crushed Real Madrid. The team gained confidence, rhythm, and momentum with every round. By the time they reached the final, they were playing fearless, fluid football.

Luis Enrique has instilled total football principles. No fixed roles. Fluid front lines. A flexible midfield without a traditional playmaker or defensive anchor. Fullbacks join attacks, defenders cover wide spaces, and young players like Willian Pacho quietly deliver near-perfect performances.

The goals in the final told the story: Hakimi, a right-back, scoring from center-forward position. Dembélé creating and pressing. Dhoué everywhere—assisting, scoring, dictating tempo. Even academy graduate Senny Maiolo got in on the action with a late fifth goal.

And while PSG danced, Inter crumbled. Their players mentally checked out and waited for the final whistle. It was a complete collapse.

Yes, PSG deserved to win. The players delivered. Luis Enrique deserves all the praise. But here’s the uncomfortable truth: this win is also a PR victory for Qatar.

This is sportswashing. A repressive regime accused of funding terror and abusing migrant workers improves its global image through beautiful football. It’s no coincidence that western media praises the club’s “new management style.” That’s the point. This is the story they want told.

The players—Dembélé, Dhoué—aren’t to blame. It’s unrealistic to expect young athletes to choose teams based on morality. But fans do have a choice. You can admire PSG’s football and still detest what the club represents. This win, as dominant as it was, is a sad milestone for football. PSG’s highest high is the sport’s lowest low.

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OnlyFans for Sale: From Lockdown Lifeline to Eight-Billion-Dollar Empire

OnlyFans, originally launched as a video platform for musicians and comedians, has turned into one of the most profitable adult content sites in the world—with over three hundred million users and billions in revenue. Now, its reclusive Jewish owner, Leonid Radvinsky, is reportedly looking to sell it—for a staggering eight billion dollars.

Headquartered in London with just fifty employees, OnlyFans takes twenty percent of its creators’ earnings from paid subscriptions. It gained massive traction during the COVID-19 pandemic, when both demand and supply of adult content soared as entertainers and sex workers turned to online platforms. The business model offers direct relationships between creators and fans, no middlemen, and no physical risk.

The company handed out five-point-three billion dollars to creators in 2023. That year, three hundred million users paid six-point-six billion dollars across over four million creator channels. Celebrities like Iggy Azalea, Bhad Bhabie, Tana Mongeau, and Lily Allen have all made significant earnings, with Allen famously charging ten dollars per month for photos of her feet. Snoop Dogg reportedly turned down a one-hundred-million-dollar offer to join.

Despite its success, OnlyFans has faced criticism for its adult content and business model. Critics say it still reinforces gendered power dynamics in the sex industry, and most of the platform’s revenue goes to a small elite of creators—ten percent of content creators account for seventy-three percent of profits.

Leonid Radvinsky, born in Odessa and raised in Chicago, bought seventy-five percent of the company in 2018 from founder Tim Stokely. A tech investor and entrepreneur since college, Radvinsky keeps a low profile but has donated millions to causes including Ukraine and AIPAC.

Despite the platform’s massive profits—nearly five hundred million dollars last year—selling it hasn’t been easy. A previous deal fell through due to backlash over a planned adult content ban. The site's nature has also scared off institutional investors, especially pension funds.

Still, OnlyFans remains highly attractive to buyers. It’s lean, avoids app store fees, and even pays lower credit card fees than most adult platforms. And unlike AI-generated content flooding the industry, OnlyFans thrives on real people and real connections.

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Hegseth Warns of Potential Chinese Military Action Against Taiwan

Thailand Closes Border Crossings with Cambodia Following Deadly Military Clash

Border skirmish near Chong Bok prompts checkpoint closures amid rising nationalist tensions and product boycott calls

Thailand has announced the closure of multiple border crossings with Cambodia following a fatal military clash near the disputed Chong Bok area in Ubon Ratchathani province. The incident, which occurred on May 28, resulted in the death of a Cambodian soldier and heightened tensions between the two nations.

Clash Details

The confrontation began around 5:30 a.m. when Thai troops encountered Cambodian soldiers in a contested border zone. Thai authorities reported that Cambodian forces initiated gunfire during an attempted negotiation, leading to a ten-minute exchange before a ceasefire was brokered by local commanders. Cambodia's Ministry of National Defence stated that Thai troops opened fire on a long-standing Cambodian position, resulting in one fatality and several injuries among its soldiers. Thai forces reported no casualties.

Border Closures Implemented

In response to the incident and subsequent nationalist backlash in Cambodia, including widespread calls on social media to boycott Thai products, Thai security agencies convened an emergency meeting. Citing concerns over the safety of local communities and cross-border trade, authorities decided to close all border checkpoints along the Thai-Cambodian border. The closures affect six permanent border crossings:

Chong Sa Ngam, Phu Sing District, Sisaket Province
Chong Chom, Kap Choeng District, Surin Province
Ban Khlong Luek, Aranyaprathet District, Sa Kaeo Province
Ban Laem, Pong Nam Ron District, Chanthaburi Province
Ban Phak Kad, Pong Nam Ron District, Chanthaburi Province
Ban Hat Lek, Khlong Yai District, Trat Province

Additionally, ten temporary crossings, including those at Preah Vihear and Ta Muen Thom, have been closed.

Diplomatic Efforts and Military Movements

Following the clash, Thai Army Chief General Pana Claewplodtook met with his Cambodian counterpart, General Mao Sophan, to express condolences and discuss de-escalation measures. Both sides agreed to withdraw troops from the immediate area and to seek peaceful resolutions through joint border committees. Despite these efforts, Cambodia has reinforced its military presence along the border, emphasizing its commitment to protecting territorial integrity.

Historical Context

The Thailand-Cambodia border has been a longstanding source of tension, particularly around the Preah Vihear temple area. In 2013, the International Court of Justice granted sovereignty over the temple to Cambodia, but disputes over adjacent land persist. Previous incidents, including a February confrontation at the Ta Muen Thom temple, have further strained relations.

Government Statements

Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet have both expressed a desire to avoid further conflict and to resolve disputes through diplomatic channels. Cambodian authorities have urged the public to refrain from spreading unverified information on social media to prevent exacerbating tensions.

The situation remains fluid, with both nations monitoring developments and engaging in ongoing discussions to restore stability along the border.

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Southeast Asia Advocates for Evidence-Based Traditional Medicine at WHO Assembly

Thailand and regional partners present joint statement urging WHO to strengthen scientific validation, ethical innovation, and protection of traditional medical knowledge

At the 78th World Health Assembly held in Geneva in May 2025, Thailand, representing the World Health Organization's South-East Asia Region (SEAR), delivered a Joint Regional Position Statement concerning the WHO Global Traditional Medicine Strategy 2025–2034. The statement outlined four key recommendations aimed at enhancing the integration and regulation of traditional medicine within global health systems.

1. Strengthening Evidence-Based Traditional Medicine

The SEAR delegation emphasized the necessity for the WHO to support the development of scientific evidence underpinning traditional medicine practices. This includes promoting regional research networks and the utilization of real-world data, while acknowledging and respecting the context of unrecorded traditional knowledge. The delegation also advocated for the elevation of the WHO Global Centre for Traditional Medicine in Jamnagar, India, as a hub for international research and innovation cooperation.

2. Ethical Innovation and Digital Health

The statement called for the ethical application of digital technologies and artificial intelligence in traditional medicine. It stressed the importance of respecting cultural contexts and ensuring that technological advancements serve to promote, rather than replace, traditional knowledge. Additionally, the delegation highlighted the need for adequate data protection measures and equitable access to digital health resources.

3. Protection of Traditional Medical Knowledge

The SEAR countries urged the WHO to implement stronger protections for traditional medical knowledge. This includes establishing fair benefit-sharing mechanisms and supporting the rights of indigenous communities in managing biodiversity sustainably. The delegation noted the urgency of this issue in the context of rapid trade and digital transformation.

4. Establishing Strong Monitoring and Evaluation Mechanisms

The statement recommended that the WHO establish clear, measurable indicators to track the progress of the Global Traditional Medicine Strategy efficiently. It also supported a comprehensive review of the strategy by 2030 to assess its effectiveness and impact.

These recommendations align with the strategic objectives outlined in the WHO's draft Global Traditional Medicine Strategy 2025–2034, which aims to integrate traditional, complementary, and integrative medicine into national health systems, strengthen the evidence base, and ensure the safety and quality of traditional medicine practices.

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Hong Kong Raises Age Limit for Non-Local Skilled Workers to Address Labour Shortages

The age limit increase from 35 to 40 aims to attract skilled professionals amid an impending manpower crisis.

The government of Hong Kong has announced an increase in the age limit for non-local skilled workers seeking employment in the city from 35 to 40 years.

This decision was confirmed by the Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Chris Sun Yuk-han, who stated that the change is intended to attract vital talent to alleviate manpower shortages in various technical fields.

The announcement was made during a radio show, where Sun indicated that the details of the new scheme are still being finalized and will be disclosed in the near future.

He explained that an age limit set at 40 years is deemed more ideal since it allows skilled workers to potentially contribute to the economy until the age of 65, resulting in at least 25 years of economic input from new arrivals.

The sectors identified as having an acute need for this talent include lift maintenance, electrical technicians, and enrolled nurses for care homes.

A policy address by Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu last October projected a labour shortfall of approximately 180,000 workers across various sectors within the next five years.

To address this, Lee pledged reforms to the city’s talent admission regime, including new pathways for skilled and experienced workers in specific trades facing significant manpower shortages.

The revised age limit follows extensive consultations, with the government noting that an age range of 18 to 40 years is expected to be more effective in attracting the necessary technical talent.

This revision reflects a broader global trend of aging populations, which is influencing talent acquisition strategies worldwide.

The initiative is positioned to admit 10,000 skilled professionals over a three-year period, with the labour chief asserting that this will not adversely affect local job prospects for technicians.

The programme aims not only to address manpower shortages but also to ensure the protection of local job opportunities, prioritizing industries experiencing acute labour deficiencies.

Additionally, the programme will facilitate the entry of professionals needed for emerging industries where specific skills are not readily available within Hong Kong.

Sun emphasized that the initiative will include strict requirements regarding qualifications and designated work scopes, ensuring that incoming professionals address the pressing shortages in technical fields.

While the government has not imposed restrictions on the origin of these professionals, it is anticipated that a significant proportion will come from mainland China, aligning with trends observed in similar talent acquisition programmes.

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Meta and Anduril Collaborate on AI-Driven Military Augmented Reality Systems

EagleEye project aims to enhance U.S. soldiers' battlefield awareness through advanced XR technology

Meta Platforms has announced a strategic partnership with defense technology firm Anduril Industries to develop advanced extended reality (XR) systems for the U.S. military.

The collaboration focuses on integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and augmented reality (AR) to enhance soldiers' situational awareness and decision-making capabilities on the battlefield.

Central to this initiative is the development of EagleEye, a high-tech helmet designed to provide real-time battlefield intelligence.

The helmet will incorporate Meta's AI models, including its Llama series, and leverage Anduril's Lattice platform—a command and control system that synthesizes data from multiple sources to deliver actionable insights to military personnel.

The EagleEye system aims to improve soldiers' sensory perception, enabling the detection of threats such as drones and concealed targets.

The technology is intended to function as an AI-powered assistant, capable of managing tasks and facilitating communication among units.

Meta's Reality Labs will contribute its expertise in AR and VR technologies to the project.

This partnership marks a significant step for Meta into the defense sector, following a policy change in November 2024 that allowed its AI models to be used for military applications by U.S. government agencies and defense contractors.

The collaboration also reunites Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg with Palmer Luckey, founder of Anduril and former Oculus VR executive.

Meta and Anduril have submitted a joint proposal for the U.S. Army's Soldier Borne Mission Command (SBMC) Next program, which seeks to advance the Army's Integrated Visual Augmentation System (IVAS).

The proposal includes the development of XR devices aimed at enhancing soldier effectiveness through improved mobility, lethality, and situational awareness.

The EagleEye project is privately funded by Meta and Anduril, utilizing technology initially developed for commercial use.

The initiative reflects a broader trend of increased collaboration between technology companies and the defense sector, as the U.S. military seeks to incorporate cutting-edge innovations to maintain strategic advantages.

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