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Category: World
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Ben & Jerry’s founder Jerry Greenfield quits, says company’s activism has been silenced under Unilever
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[/media-credit]Jerry Greenfield, co-founder of Ben & Jerry’s, has announced his resignation, citing a fundamental breakdown of the brand’s independence and its ability to speak out on social issues. The decision comes after nearly five decades of co-founding and growing a company famously rooted in activism and social justice.
Greenfield, in a letter posted by his longtime partner Ben Cohen, asserted that Unilever, which acquired Ben & Jerry’s in 2000, has undermined the merger agreement that was supposed to protect Ben & Jerry’s unique social mission. Under that deal, Ben & Jerry’s retained certain rights: A board meant to safeguard its values, and latitude to speak out on human rights, environmental justice, and equity issues. Greenfield contends that over recent years, freedom has been eroded.
Tensions escalated in 2021 when Ben & Jerry’s declared it would stop selling ice cream in Israeli-occupied territory, a move met with backlash from Unilever. In subsequent years, the brand has also made public statements about the Gaza conflict, even using strong language such as “genocide”, which further strained its relationship with its parent company. Ben & Jerry’s has even filed a lawsuit against Unilever, alleging that Unilever attempted to prevent it from publicly supporting certain causes.
Greenfield said he could no longer remain “in good conscience” with the company he founded if it no longer stood by its core mission. He called his departure “one of the most painful decisions” of his life.
Unilever (now reorganising its ice-cream brands into a unit known as The Magnum Ice Cream Company or TMICC) has disputed Greenfield’s characterisation, saying it disagrees with his view and is engaging in dialogue with the co-founders.
The conflict raises complex questions about what happens when socially driven brand values enter tension with corporate ownership. Greenfield’s exit underscores the challenge of preserving activist identity within a large corporate structure—especially when decisions by higher-ups seem to limit or alter what was promised. It also highlights how merger agreements intended to protect values can be challenged when economic, legal, or reputational risks emerge. The outcome of the ongoing legal actions and investor interest in possibly buying or freeing Ben & Jerry’s remains to be seen.
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Judge dismisses terrorism charge against Luigi Mangione in UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson murder case
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[/media-credit] A New York judge has dismissed the state terrorism charges against Luigi Mangione, though the broader murder indictment tied to the death of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson remains.
Mangione, 27, faces a pair of prosecutions—one at the state level and one in federal court—and has pleaded not guilty on all counts. The state case included charges of first-degree murder and allegations that the killing was “an act of terrorism”, which carries life in prison under New York state law.
In hearings held this week, Mangione’s legal team argued that the state and federal cases significantly overlap and that pursuing both constitutes double jeopardy. They also pushed for the dismissal of the terrorism count, contending that the evidence does not support the claim he intended to terrorise a civilian population.
The court agreed to toss out the terrorism enhancement at the state level, though the murder charge stays. Meanwhile, federal charges—which include interstate stalking with possible death penalty exposure—are progressing independently.
The decision marks a major shift in the legal landscape for the case. By removing the terrorism label under state law, public prosecutors lose one of their more severe tools. However, the core allegation—murder of Thompson—will still be adjudicated. Observers say the case intensifies debates over how terrorism statutes are applied and the balance between state and federal prosecutions.
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Walmart launches first branded stores in South Africa this year
The South African government warmly welcomed Walmart’s announcement, stating that this investment reflects strong confidence in the nation’s growth and stability.
On September 9, 2025, Walmart (NYSE: WMT) officially unveiled plans to open its first branded retail stores in South Africa by the end of the year. This marks a major expansion for the US retail giant, which has until now operated in the country primarily through its subsidiary, Massmart.
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[/media-credit]These new Walmart stores will offer a wide inventory—spanning fresh groceries, household essentials, apparel, technology, and more—whilst integrating locally sourced products. The initiative combines Walmart’s hallmark Every Day Low Prices and global operational standards with South Africa’s rich cultural and entrepreneurial spirit, according to Walmart International President and CEO Kath McLay.
Building on its April Growth Summit in Johannesburg—which brought together suppliers from twelve African nations—Walmart has already recruited numerous small and medium-sized African vendors. These partnerships highlight the company’s commitment not only to value-driven retail but also to regional empowerment and local economic development.
Several store locations are already under development, with official opening dates expected in October 2025. Whilst specific sites and further details on employment and community engagements will be disclosed soon, customers can anticipate digital features designed to enhance the shopping experience.
By entering the South African market under its own brand, Walmart will directly challenge established domestic retailers such as Shoprite, Woolworths, and Pick n Pay—and even e-commerce leaders like Amazon and Takealot.com.
The South African government warmly welcomed Walmart’s announcement, stating that this investment reflects strong confidence in the nation’s growth and stability. It supports medium-term development goals by promoting supplier development and job creation.
As the year draws to a close, all eyes will be on the official opening of Walmart’s first branded outlets in South Africa—an expansion with far-reaching implications for retail, local entrepreneurship, and competition.
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Bad Bunny and Danny Ocean lead Premios Juventud 2025 nominations as awards head to Panama
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[/media-credit]The nominees for the 22nd annual Premios Juventud were unveiled on August 19, 2025, marking a significant moment in Latin Pop culture. In a packed announcement, Bad Bunny and Danny Ocean emerged as the year’s frontrunners—each scoring six nominations—the most of any artists this year. Hot on their heels are a cadre of prominent Latin music talents, including Anitta, Beéle, Carín León, Emilia, Myke Towers, Netón Vega, and Peso Pluma, each securing five nods.
This year’s ceremony, slated for September 25, 2025, will take place at Panama City’s Figali Convention Center, marking the first time the prestigious event has been held outside the United States. The broadcast will air live on Univision, UniMás, Galavisión, and the ViX streaming platform.
Under the theme “Evolucionando al ritmo de la música”, this edition introduces eight new categories that reflect the evolving interests of young Latin audiences. Among the additions are Best Alternative Mexican Music Song, Afrobeat Latino of the Year, and Podcast of the Year, further broadening the awards’ cultural scope. Fans are encouraged to head to the official website to vote for their favourites before the deadline on September 1.
With its international debut location and expanded categories, the 2025 Premios Juventud promises to be a landmark celebration of Latin music’s most dynamic voices and cultural trends.
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Swiss watchmaker Swatch apologises and pulls “slanted eye” ad campaign after backlash in China
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[/media-credit]On August 18, 2025, Swiss watch brand Swatch publicly apologised and immediately withdrew a controversial advertisement that featured an Asian male model gesturing by pulling back the corners of his eyes—widely seen as a racist “slanted eye” stereotype. The ad, part of the Swatch Essentials collection, sparked intense criticism across Chinese social media platforms.
Viewers denounced it as tone-deaf and offensive, accusing the brand of invoking a derogatory racial caricature. In response, Swatch posted a bilingual apology in both Chinese and English across its official Weibo and Instagram accounts, stating, “We sincerely apologise for any distress or misunderstanding this may have caused.”
The company confirmed that it had removed the ad globally.
This misstep comes at a precarious time for Swatch. In 2024, the company reported a 14.6% drop in revenue, landing at CHF 6.74 billion (approximately US $8.4 billion), largely due to weakened consumer demand in China, Hong Kong, and Macau—regions that accounted for around 27% of Swatch Group’s sales. The incident adds to a growing pattern of Western luxury and fashion brands facing backlash in China over culturally insensitive marketing—echoing past controversies involving Dior, Dolce & Gabbana, and others.
Some Chinese consumers were not placated by the apology. On Instagram, one user remarked, “I can’t believe such a large watch company could make such a careless mistake. This cannot be forgiven.” Another pointed out that the gesture offended all Asians—not just Chinese—and called for accountability.
Swatch’s rapid response may limit long-term damage, but the incident underscores the critical importance of cultural sensitivity in global branding—particularly when operating in diverse and deeply interconnected markets.
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Tragic accident claims life of former Miss Universe contestant Kseniya Alexandrova
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[/media-credit]The world of beauty pageants and modeling is in mourning following the untimely passing of Kseniya Alexandrova, a beloved Russian model and former Miss Universe Russia, who died at age thirty after a freak accident involving an elk. Alexandrova succumbed to severe brain injuries sustained in the crash, after fighting for her life for more than a month. The devastating incident occurred on July 5, 2025, in the Tver Oblast region of Russia. Alexandrova was a passenger in her husband’s Porsche Panamera when an elk suddenly darted onto the road and smashed through the windshield, violently striking her on the head.
Her husband recalled, “From the moment it jumped out to the impact, a split second passed. I didn’t have time to do anything… everything was covered in blood.”
Despite the immediate response of other drivers and emergency services, she slipped into a coma from which she never recovered. Alexandrova, who had married just four months earlier in March 2025, remained hospitalised until she passed away. Sources differ slightly on the date of her death—some report August 12, others say August 15—but most confirm mid-August 2025 as the timeframe.
A highly accomplished woman, Alexandrova earned the title of Vice-Miss Russia in 2017 and went on to represent the country at the Miss Universe pageant that same year. Academically, she held a degree in finance from the Plekhanov Russian University of Economics and, in 2022, completed her studies in psychology. She was also known to serve as a psychodrama therapist.
In the wake of her death, her modelling agency, Modus Vivendis, issued a heartfelt statement, remembering her as “bright, talented… a symbol of beauty, kindness, and inner strength”. The Miss Universe Organisation also paid tribute, sharing a video tribute and expressing condolences to her family, praising her grace, beauty, and lasting spirit.
Kseniya Alexandrova’s sudden death serves as a sobering reminder of life’s fragility. In honouring her memory, her admirers remember not just her external beauty, but the warmth, strength, and passion she brought to every endeavour.
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Melania Trump pens emotional letter to Putin, urging end to Ukraine War for the sake of children
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[/media-credit]On August 15, 2025, during a high-stakes summit in Alaska between President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, First Lady Melania Trump took the extraordinary step of penning a heartfelt “peace letter” urging Putin to end the devastating war in Ukraine. Although Melania was not present at the meeting, the letter was personally hand-delivered to the Russian leader by President Trump.
Written on White House stationery, the letter avoided explicit geopolitical references but focused deeply on the plight of children affected by the conflict. Melania evoked universal themes of innocence and hope, reminding Putin that “every child shares the same quiet dreams in their heart… They dream of love, possibility, and safety from danger.” She implored him to “singlehandedly restore their melodic laughter”—a call to action that, as she wrote, would see him “serve humanity itself”.
The letter’s emotional resonance stems from its emphasis on children—a group poignantly affected by abductions and displacement during the war. Reports have documented thousands of Ukrainian children forcibly transferred to Russia or occupied territories, raising international alarm and war crime accusations. President Trump described the summit as “extremely productive”, yet no ceasefire or territorial agreement was reached. Putin reportedly demanded concessions from Ukraine, especially in Donetsk and Luhansk, but no formal deal emerged.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is scheduled to meet President Trump in Washington soon, underscoring that the peace process remains in flux and that Ukraine’s input remains central. In sum, Melania Trump’s deeply humanistic letter represents a rare diplomatic gesture focused on empathy. Though it did not yield a formal agreement, it spotlighted the emotional toll of conflict on the youngest victims and injected a humanitarian voice into an otherwise fraught political dialogue.
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Melania Trump slams Hunter Biden with $1B legal threat over Epstein remarks
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[/media-credit]In a dramatic turn of events, former First Lady Melania Trump has issued a legal ultimatum to Hunter Biden, demanding a sweeping apology and staggering damages exceeding one billion dollars. The move stems from a highly inflammatory claim Hunter made during an interview with director Andrew Callaghan: he asserted that Donald Trump was introduced to Melania by the convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Melania’s lawyers swiftly pounced, officially labelling the accusation as “false, insulting, defamatory, and provocative”, and charging that it has significantly harmed her reputation.
Her legal team has dispatched a formal letter demanding that Hunter retract the statement and issue a public apology—or face the consequences. If he fails to comply, Melania is ready to pursue full litigation for both moral and financial damages. Interestingly, the media outlet Hunter relied on—presumably The Daily Beast—has since removed the offending article and issued a retraction, acknowledging the absence of any factual evidence to support his claim. According to established accounts, Donald and Melania Trump first met at a November 1998 modelling-industry party, shortly after his divorce from his second wife.
This development unfolds amid renewed attention on the so-called “Epstein files” – purported confidential documents that could implicate high-profile figures. President Donald Trump had previously vowed to release these files if re-elected, but the Department of Justice and FBI have stated, as of July 2025, that no compromising list exists. With tensions escalating between the Trump and Biden families, this high-stakes legal drama could attract intense media and judicial scrutiny in the coming weeks.
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Naomi Osaka’s journey of motherhood and comeback in ‘The Second Set’: Watch the trailer
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[/media-credit]Renowned tennis champion Naomi Osaka is set to share a deeply personal chapter of her life in the upcoming documentary ‘Naomi Osaka: The Second Set’. The film chronicles her highly anticipated return to professional tennis following the birth of her daughter, Shai, offering an unfiltered glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of balancing elite sport with first-time motherhood.
Described as a love letter to Shai, the documentary goes beyond the court to explore Osaka’s emotional, physical, and mental journey as she redefines her career and personal life. Known for her powerful presence both on and off the tennis court, Osaka’s candid storytelling is expected to inspire mothers, athletes, and fans alike.
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The film is directed by award-winning documentary filmmaker Kat Jayme, whose previous work includes ‘The Grizzlie Truth’, ‘I’m Just Here for the Riot’, and ‘Finding Big Country’. Jayme is celebrated for crafting intimate, human-centred sports stories that connect with audiences on a profound level. ‘Naomi Osaka: The Second Set’ is produced by Hana Kuma, the media company Osaka co-founded with Stuart Duguid, alongside sportswear giant Nike. The project also has the backing of Fulwell Entertainment’s Uninterrupted, the athlete-empowerment brand founded by LeBron James and Maverick Carter. James, Carter, Jamal Henderson, and Philip Byron serve as executive producers under the Uninterrupted banner, adding significant star power to the production team.
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[/media-credit]With Osaka’s return marking one of the most talked-about comebacks in modern sports, the documentary promises to showcase the raw determination, vulnerability, and resilience that have defined her career. ‘Naomi Osaka: The Second Set’ is set to offer viewers a rare, intimate perspective on one of tennis’ most influential figures as she steps into a powerful new phase—both as a mother and a champion.
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South Korean actor Song Young‑Kyu found dead at 55 following DUI scandal
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[/media-credit]South Korean actor Song Young‑Kyu, aged fifty-five, was tragically found dead inside his parked car in Cheoin-gu, Yongin, a city just south of Seoul, at approximately 8 AM KST on August 4, 2025. An acquaintance discovered him and alerted authorities, who confirmed there were no signs of foul play or a suicide note at the scene. Young‑Kyu had recently been involved in a drunk‑driving incident on June 19, allegedly driving from Giheung-gu to Cheoin-gu with a blood alcohol level above South Korea’s legal limit. He was sent to prosecutors and lost roles in multiple productions, including the stage production Shakespeare in Love and television dramas ‘The Defects’ and ‘The Winning Try’.
With a three‑decade career starting in a children’s musical in 1994, Song appeared in theatre, film and television—including over fifty productions. He was best known internationally for playing Chief Choi in the 2019 blockbuster ‘Extreme Job’. Additional credits include roles in series such as Narco‑Saints and Big Bet, as well as supporting performances in titles like ‘Hwarang’, ‘Casino’, ‘Toxic’ and ‘Land of Happiness’ (2024).
He is survived by his wife and two daughters. According to reports, Song had been living apart from his family for some time, possibly amid mounting personal and professional stress. The actor’s passing has sent shockwaves through fans and the entertainment community in South Korea, where public scrutiny and scandal often exert heavy emotional tolls on celebrities. An autopsy has been ordered to determine the cause of death, though authorities state there is no immediate reason to suspect criminal activity. His funeral was scheduled for August 6 at Hambaeksan Memorial Park.
Song’s unexpected passing comes at a time of ongoing debate over the pressures faced by public figures in South Korea, particularly following public missteps—as seen in comparable high-profile celebrity deaths in recent years. His fans remember him as a versatile character actor whose dry wit and understated performances left a lasting impression on Korean cinema and TV.