Thailand shuts scenic viewing spot after Laos clashes May 06, 2025 at 01:07AM

Recent armed clashes in Laos, potentially linked to drug smuggling within the Golden Triangle, have prompted Thailand to close the popular Phu Chi Fa viewpoint on the border. The US Embassy in Vientiane issued a security alert, advising Americans to reconsider travel to Bokeo province due to reported clashes between the Lao army and unidentified armed groups.

US restarts student loan collections: 10 things you need to know May 06, 2025 at 01:50AM

Starting May 5, 2025, the US Department of Education will resume collecting on defaulted federal student loans, ending a pandemic-era pause. This decision aims to protect taxpayers and guide borrowers back to manageable repayment, accompanied by a comprehensive outreach program.

US spy agencies reject Trump claim on Venezuelan gangs: Memo May 05, 2025 at 11:54PM

US intelligence agencies rejected a claim by President Donald Trump used to justify the deportation of more than 200 Venezuelans to El Salvador, according to a declassified memo released on Monday. The memo by the National Intelligence Council, dated April 7, shows US spy agencies do not believe Trump's claims that the Tren de Aragua (TDA) criminal gang is linked to Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro's government.