ridiculous

Back and forth over defence spending comes as NATO leaders set to meet in Ankara next week.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has defended his country’s NATO defence spending, shortly after US President Donald Trump re-upped his criticism of alliance members.

The statement on Friday came as NATO leaders were set to meet next week in Ankara. Trump has decried defence spending by members of the bloc throughout his political career, calling the balance of spending “ridiculous” and “one-sided” in his latest Truth Social posts on the issue earlier this week.

In one post, Trump said Germany’s spending was “MUCH ⁠LOWER” between 2014 and 2025 than the US or other NATO allies, which he again called “Ridiculous!”

When asked about the comment, Merz said Germany would double its defence budget within four years.

“This is the greatest effort we have ever made to strengthen our defence capabilities. In this respect, we have ‌no reason to shy away from anyone,” Merz said.

“We will state this, with all due modesty, and we are doing so as the European Union’s largest member state, bearing a responsibility within Europe,” he said.

US and European ties have been strained throughout Trump’s first term from 2017 to 2021 and his current term, which began in January 2025.

However, while largely dismissive of the president during his first four years in office, several European leaders have sought a more amenable approach to the president this time around.

At the behest of the US, NATO leaders agreed to spend 3.5 percent of their countries’ GDP on core defence items, such as weapons and troops, ⁠by 2035, an increase of the previous goal set by the bloc of 2 percent of its GDP.

However, relations have since frayed over several issues, including Trump’s pledges to take control of the autonomous Danish territory of Greenland. Denmark is a member of NATO.

The US-Israeli war in Iran has also proven to be a major wedge, with Trump launching the conflict without consulting European allies who have dealt with the fallout of the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

Trump had repeatedly condemned European allies for not joining the war effort.

Merz, meanwhile, roiled the president by saying in April the US had been “humiliated” by Iran. Trump, in turn, said the US would withdraw 5,000 troops currently stationed in Germany.

Speaking on Friday, Merz said Germany was ahead of schedule to reach its NATO commitments.

“We will reach the 3.5 percent benchmark set in The Hague as early as 2029,” he told reporters, “well ahead of the agreed deadline”.

The hosts of Good Morning Britain turned their attention to England’s knockout match

Viewers of Good Morning Britain were not impressed during the latest live show.

Ranvir Singh and Ed Balls were back in the ITV studio on Wednesday (July 1) to deliver the day’s biggest headlines from across the UK and around the world.

All eyes will be on Atlanta later today as England take on the Democratic Republic of Congo in their round of 32 match at the FIFA World Cup. England came through Group L unbeaten, following wins against Croatia and Panama, and a goalless draw with Ghana, but have so far fallen short of the sort of performances needed if they are to progress deep into the competition.

Their opponents have reached the knockout stage for the first time in their history, sealing their spot with a 3-1 win against Uzbekistan, in which Newcastle United striker Yoane Wissa scored twice.

Ranvir and Ed hosted a tense debate on GMB, after some fans are calling for their employers to give them a half day so they can enjoy the match, which kicks off at 5pm UK time.

Lindi Glass, the founder and director of Explode Social Media, has given her staff a half day to watch the match, while construction business owner Claudia Hearne firmly disagrees.

“It only happens every four years. I’m not a huge fan, but everybody is when the World Cup’s on. When it comes to business, I don’t think it’s about just salary, it’s about feeling great, it’s about output,” Lindi began.

Claudia interrupted to say: “This only happens every four years, but the games are happening several times over the next few weeks. If we manage to get through, we’ve got another five matches! Is that five half days we’re getting off?”

She went on: “How do we think the country is going to fare economically, would we be paralysed, if the 32 million workers in the country take a half day for one football match that’s not a final?”

Lindi replied: “Claudia, you’re at risk of sounding like a blithering plutocrat… I feel [like] that is an incorrect statement.”

ITV viewers were not impressed with the debate, with many sharing complaints on X (formerly Twitter).

“Congo are going to park the bus, England will struggle to break them down and the game will be s****. I can’t see us getting near the final so I’ve lost interest tbf,” one person wrote, with another adding: “Love a bit of shouting over each other 1st thing in the morning.”

A third said: “This programme is more ridiculous than ever,” with someone else sharing: “Why do u need a half day to get home an hour early?”

Another frustrated fan commented: “Where does it end … good question …. it doesn’t as everyone needs to be included these days with all the whataboutery,” while another wrote: “An afternoon off to watch #England play the rubbish #football they’ve been playing? You’ve got to be kidding!”

A seventh fan echoed the sentiment, saying: “What a load of old s****.”

Oasis legend Liam Gallagher even shared his thoughts on the GMB debate, writing: “Did RANVIR on GMB just say England fans who are working should be allowed to f*** off home early or am I hearing things.”

Good Morning Britain airs weekdays on ITV1 and ITVX at 6am, while England’s World Cup knockout match will air from 4pm on BBC One on Wednesday (July 1)

Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark called out officials following her team’s 86-77 win over the Phoenix Mercury on Monday. She was one of five players assessed technical fouls amid a fourth-quarter dustup that also involved former teammate DeWanna Bonner.

Clark was called for a personal foul at the 7:57 mark in the fourth quarter after getting tangled up with Bonner, who was trying to post up near the free-throw line. The two exchanged some words before things escalated as their teammates got involved. Clark appeared flabbergasted when she learned she received a technical foul for clapping while her teammate Myisha Hines-Allen and the Mercury’s Alyssa Thomas were in each other’s faces.

Bonner, Thomas, Hines-Allen and Fever guard Sophie Cunningham were also assessed technical fouls for their actions during the scuffle. Hines-Allen was later ejected from the game after earning another technical foul for pushing Thomas after being called for a foul in the very next play.

This marks Clark’s fifth technical of the season so far. Players who rack up eight technical fouls in a season must serve a one-game suspension.

“It’s ridiculous. I got a tech for clapping,” Clark said after the game. “We should all just go on the calendar now and pick a game that I’m going to be suspended for if I’m going to get technicals for clapping.

“If any technicals should be taken away, it should be that one,” Clark added. “I don’t understand it at all. … I’m going to play with emotion. I’m going to play with passion. And if they’re going to give me a technical foul for clapping, then so be it. That’s their choice.”

Caitlin Clark reacts during Monday’s game between the Indiana Fever and the Phoenix Mercury.

(Michael Hickey / Getty Images)

This was not the first time this season the two-time All-Star has been seen clapping toward other players or officials during a game. None of the previous occasions resulted in Clark receiving a technical foul. The star guard has been receiving more attention this season for her behavior during games outside of her play. The Fever reportedly plan to appeal the technical foul.

Clark led all scorers with 24 points while also dishing out nine assists in the Fever win, while Kelsey Mitchell added 22 points. For the Mercury, Kahleah Copper led with 20 points, while Thomas had 19 points, five rebounds and nine assists.

Bonner, a two-time WNBA champion, had signed a one-year contract with the Fever last season. She played in just nine games before parting ways with the team and eventually rejoining the Mercury, where she started her career. Fever fans could be heard booing Bonner at various times during Monday’s game at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis.

Fever coach Stephanie White said that Clark has to be aware of her technical fouls and that “there are some that we could do without.”

“There are natural things that happen that the energy of the game creates when you do get those,” White said. “But there are some that we can be a little bit more in control of. So, yes, we’ll continue to remind her, and I think she has to have an awareness.”

She also brushed off the incident as something “that … happens” in “a competitive sport.”

“As a group, we have to be able to have our moment and then regroup and play with poise and composure. It can’t continue to go on,” White said.

Dallas Wing guard Paige Bueckers and Golden State Valkyries forward Janelle Salaün are among the other players who have been assessed technical fouls this season for clapping after a play. Neither incidents involved taunting players from the opposing team, and both of those techs have reportedly been rescinded.

All-inclusive holidays are common across the Mediterranean, Mexico and the Caribbean, but the concept has evolved over the decades — and, as I found, is still changing…

For the past 15 years, if anyone ever even hinted at holidaying at an all-inclusive resort across the Mediterranean, I would shudder. Just the thought would evoke visions of a package holiday, full of Brits seeking the same cheap thrills for which they crave over here.

Don’t get me wrong – I’m not a snob. I’m the son of a travel agent, whose most popular getaways were these trips to the likes of Spain, Portugal and Greece. Brits love them.

But I’ve just come back from Greece. And from an all-inclusive resort. And, yes, I’ll eat humble pie – my view was misjudged. My trip to Ella Rocrita Resort Crete was glorious. It was a slice of luxury in a little-known corner of Crete, where tourists can enjoy the fascinating traditions, culture and nature the island has quietly boasted for decades.

Many Brits were there too. But this holiday, an all-inclusive, offered that bit of sun we here fondly miss, as well as a glimpse of Cretan life. Our boat trip to the ancient island of Spinalonga and excursion to Toplou Monastery will remain happy memories for many years.

Ella Rocrita Resort Crete is the fourth Ella Resort, having opened in April in the wake of successes on the likes of Corfu. These luxury all-inclusive complexes are essentially sprawling villages, and the newest is complete with five restaurants, several other bars with live entertainment and two large outdoor pools. Many of the 350-odd rooms and suites have quaint plunge pools, shared by only around half a dozen.

The brand, founded in 2021 but properly bursting onto the scene in 2023, has created these eco‑chic resorts in a bid to transform the identity of the all-inclusive, presumably from the image I had in my mind.

Rocrita, near the little fishing village of Mochlos, caters to families just as much as it does to couples. There’s an on-site crèche, kids club, babysitting service and a ninja pool — the latter just as appealing for youngsters as it is for big kids at heart, like myself.

I like to immerse myself in the culture of a new place, so I was a little reticent about staying at an all-inclusive. Excursions are available, though, and I was pleasantly surprised by how much culture I could absorb in the area. The stunning, lesser-known coastal spot in the northeast of the Greek island is tempting for travellers who want a true holiday experience without the hustle and bustle of tourist towns.

Every morning at Mochlos, I found myself instinctively looking up at the majestic peaks that surrounded us. Whether I was walking to breakfast, relaxing by the pool, or gazing back at the resort from the boat, the mountains were always there, providing an awe-inspiring backdrop to every moment of my stay at Ella Rocrita Resort. Even now, when I close my eyes, I can still picture them rising above me, as striking and unforgettable as ever.

Culture

On one particularly memorable day I visited Toplou Monastery. Founded in the 14th century, it is still functioning. The monks there make wine and were happy to treat us to a splendid wine-tasting session.

Travel west along the coast, hop on a little boat and spend a short while on Spinalonga. This island, maintained as a fortress for centuries under Venetian rule, became a leper colony in the early 20th century. It has been uninhabited since 1962 and is now the second-most-visited tourist site in Crete.

But those who enjoy activities closer to home can hit the private beach and make a splash with the wide variety of watersports. Yoga and pilates sessions are held most mornings on the lawn, play padel – the new racquet sport taking Europe by storm – and even enjoy a massage or facial in the wellness centre.

Food

This resort was ridiculous in the very best way possible. The days seemed to blur into one. I rarely knew what day it was, my screen time plummeted, and the food was so good it left me in a constant state of bliss. If you’re looking to immerse yourself in Greek culture, Ella Rocrita Resort’s culinary offering is a fantastic place to start, with five exceptional restaurants showcasing a variety of flavours and experiences.

I like to try the local cuisine and one of the eateries, Smigo, offers just that. Diners are encouraged to have meze, a selection of small dishes served as appetisers. These include grilled octopus, stuffed zucchini flowers, delicious fresh salads, oysters and wholesome bread boards.

At the Viola restaurant, dedicated chefs prepare Italian dishes, including a gorgeous prawn pasta creation. Carūma Fusion Restaurant offers South American and Cretan fusion cuisine, exotic cocktails, and an intimate setting for a dinner of tropical tastes. My crispy salmon with a fried rice dish was a gorgeous meal, but other diners enjoyed vegetarian delights at all the restaurants. The salads are light but wholesome and feature beautiful tomatoes and cucumbers.

Entertainment

The brand’s approach to entertainment has a way of drawing everyone in. It is understated, and not the happy-clappy fanfare I had feared as I prepared for the all-inclusive venture. Smooth jazz-inspired singers set the tone in the late bars, but the poolside watering hole boasts a DJ desperate to lure guests up to dance.

But it wasn’t an in-your-face theatre of performers, begging families up to stages to dance to unpalatable cheesy tunes. Instead, there are quiet spots across the whole of the resort where couples can relax and simply enjoy cocktails. The choice of which, by the way, is impressive; from a strong and oaky Manhattan to the resort specials, like the smooth Amber Spark (rum-based but with ginger tones).

There’s plenty for the children too, including sweet performances at the little amphitheatre and entertainment provided at the kids’ club. The arcade, complete with pool tables, is popular with youngsters and competitive adults alike.

Newly opened resort

At the end of the day — whether that means an early night or finally calling it quits after dancing until the bar closes at 1am — you retreat to one of the resort’s newly renovated rooms. Fresh, contemporary and infused with a relaxed Mediterranean aesthetic, the accommodation provides a comfortable sanctuary, with many rooms offering beautiful views across the pool or out towards the sea.

That sense of ease extends throughout the resort. From the soft, sun-washed colour palette and calming interiors to the intuitive layout that seamlessly connects rooms, restaurants and communal spaces, everything has been designed with relaxation in mind. It’s the kind of place where you quickly settle in, never feel lost, and can focus entirely on enjoying your holiday.

Book it

Rooms at Ella Rocrita start from approx. £184 per night, depending on season.

KIM Kardashian’s hairdresser Chris Appleton has revealed the staggering amount he charges his clients – and fans are stunned. 

Chris, 42, has been a key part of 45-year-old Kim’s glam squad for more than a decade and is responsible for some of her most iconic looks. 

The stylist sat down with Jamie Laing for an episode of his Great Company podcast and the Made in Chelsea star wasted no time in putting him on the spot. 

Jamie, 37, asked: “Is it true you charge £100,000 for a haircut?”

Chris replied: “Oh god, I should never have said that. I got dragged for that. 

“Do you want to know the honest truth?”

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Jamie said: “Come on, it’s success! Yes.” 

Recalling being asked about his fee in a previous interview, Chris said: “It’s more. It’s £200,000. I said £100,000 because I was afraid of what… I was scared.”

Attempting to justify the eye-watering amount, he continued: “There’s so much that goes into it and there are plenty of times where I work for free or I don’t get paid that amount of money.

“Also, fifty percent tax, in America, and then your agent takes half and then your business manager takes five [percent]. So, the answer is yes and no.”

After the clip was shared on social media, fans in the comments were divided. 

One wrote: “I don’t get how much goes into it, that’s disgraceful.”

Another said: “That is just a ridiculous amount of money for a haircut.”

But others praised Chris, with someone saying: “He seems humble, grounded and a wonderful person. He’s done incredibly well.”

Kim previously told how Chris is more than a stylist to her and is one of her closest confidants. 

Presenting him with the Hair Artist of the Year award at the Fashion Los Angeles Awards in 2023, she said: “I can tell him all of my personal business and it will never get out. 

“We can party in Vegas all night long until three in the morning and get tattoos – not me  – like we did last night.”

Former captain Michael Vaughan says it is “ridiculous” England are yet to appoint their new national selector.

The process to name the successor to Luke Wright, who announced he was stepping down on 22 January and left after the T20 World Cup concluded in March, has reached the final stages, with interviews for the position held this week.

There have already been four rounds of action in the County Championship and England are set to name their squad for the first Test against New Zealand in two weeks’ time.

“It’s ridiculous how they’re announcing a selector so late,” Vaughan said on the Stick to Cricket podcast.

“I wanted the selector there on 1 April, going out, having a look, gathering information.

“Luke Wright quit at the back end of Australia. We knew didn’t we?

“It’s a long time, four months, to find someone.”

Britain’s Got Talent viewers were left fuming after KSI used his golden buzzer on a strange act

Britain’s Got Talent viewers were left disappointed as they threatened to ‘turn off’.

During Saturday’s (April 18) episode of the ITV talent programme, YouTuber KSI used his golden buzzer to send one act through to the live shows, but his choice has sparked criticism from viewers, who described it as the “worst golden buzzer”.

Audiences tuned in for the final auditions in the 19th series of the popular talent competition as hopefuls from across the nation demonstrated their abilities in an attempt to wow judges Simon Cowell, Amanda Holden, Alesha Dixon and KSI.

It’s hardly surprising that they pulled out all the stops in their efforts to impress the panel and secure the £250,000 cash prize along with a coveted slot at the Royal Variety Performance. And as expected, they’re all hoping to earn the golden buzzer – which propels them directly through to the live shows.

However, one performer sparked considerable controversy. Mr Cherry – a Guinness World Record holder and former contestant on America’s Got Talent in 2021 – appeared on stage and left everyone stunned with his peculiar performance, reports Wales Online.

The comedian ‘strongman’, 44, began his bizarre routine by opening a stubborn jar of pickles, which neither judge KSI nor Simon Cowell managed to accomplish.

He proceeded to crush cans by sitting on them. But matters then escalated, leaving everyone astounded after he stripped down and opened wine bottles with his buttocks.

Despite squirming throughout the entire performance, audiences were stunned when KSI opted to slam his golden buzzer. KSI dashed onto the stage, only to slip and slide across the floor on the falling confetti, taking Mr Cherry down with him.

Making his way back to his seat, KSI declared: “Ladies and Gentlemen, I don’t know about you but that was the greatest thing I have ever seen.”

However, viewers at home appeared far from convinced, branding his choice the ‘worst’ golden buzzer in the show’s history.

Taking to social media, one furious fan wrote: “I’m sorry this show is finished #bgt.” Another commented: “A Golden Buzzer? How bloody ridiculous #KSI #BGT #BritainsGotTalent.”

A third posted: “WTF?! Why the hell did KSI give that act the golden buzzer, when he spent the entirety of it squirming uncomfortably? It’s beyond a joke.”

Yet another chimed in with: “Worst Golden Buzzer #BGT.” While one more questioned: “KSI HOW IS THAT GOLDEN BUZZER WORTHY???”

Britain’s Got Talent airs Saturday nights from 7pm on ITV and ITVX.