UK Politics & Defense: UK Defence Minister John Healey quit over a months-long fight with Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s government on military spending, warning the Treasury won’t commit resources needed for safety—another hit to government stability. Workforce & HR Risk: In Edmonton, Alberta’s police watchdog is investigating the Edmonton Police Service after a judge said a 2025 letter to prosecutors may have obstructed justice in the manslaughter case of an 8-year-old. Hiring & Economic Signals: US jobless aid filings rose to 229,000, still low by historical standards, while job openings climbed—suggesting hiring is steady despite global stress. Local Jobs & Skills: Riverside opened Voltu’s global HQ and electric truck plant, targeting about 400 jobs over four years; Mountain View reported downtown office vacancies rising to 31.5% while retail vacancies fell. AI & Employment: A new Economist Group discussion highlights a “Great Stay” trend as workers choose job security over higher pay amid uncertainty. Career Pathways: A Tennessee Tech graduate turned an internship into a full-time graphic design role, showing how early experience can convert into stable work. Voluntary Retirement Trend: Japan’s profitable companies are increasingly pushing early retirement, reshaping careers even without layoffs.