Queensland’s drug crisis deepens. Australia’s latest wastewater analysis reveals cocaine and methamphetamine use in Queensland has hit an all-time high, with the state recording the second-largest increase in ice consumption nationwide. [5]
Indian airlines sound the alarm. The Federation of Indian Airlines, representing carriers including Air India, IndiGo, and SpiceJet, has written to the government warning that surging jet fuel prices threaten to make operations unviable. The industry body said the ATF pricing mechanism has become “increasingly unpredictable” and that “urgent support is required.” [22]
Italy sends inspectors to Venice Biennale. Culture Minister Giuli dispatched ministry inspectors to the Venice Biennale foundation to investigate documentation related to Russia’s participation in the upcoming exposition — a controversy that continues to roil Italy’s cultural establishment. [37]
Colombia’s hippo dilemma. The country remains deeply divided over what to do with the descendants of four hippos illegally imported by drug lord Pablo Escobar in the 1980s. The invasive population, now numbering in the dozens, has become both an ecological threat and an unlikely tourist attraction. [25]
Sri Lanka takes over cricket board. The Sri Lankan government announced a “temporary” takeover of the national cricket board, with an interim committee to be appointed to address structural reforms amid ongoing turmoil in the sport. [40]
