In the ongoing trial of former President Donald Trump, the credibility of star prosecution witness Michael Cohen has come under intense scrutiny. Cohen, who is not only a lawyer but also an admitted liar and convicted criminal, is the only person testifying who can provide direct evidence of Trump's alleged law-breaking actions.

The case, which centers around Trump's supposed intent to conceal a hush money payment to adult film star Stormy Daniels, is expected to go to the jury after the Memorial Day weekend. However, a hung jury and mistrial could occur if just one juror has reasonable doubt about the charges, making it crucial for the defense to challenge Cohen's credibility.

In a cross-examination on Thursday, defense lawyer Todd Blanche relentlessly questioned Cohen about his numerous past lies under oath. Blanche highlighted the fact that Cohen had previously sworn to tell the truth during testimonies before Congress, special counsel Robert Mueller, and a federal judge who sentenced him for tax offenses and false statements.

Blanche alleged that Cohen's claim of discussing Daniels with Trump during a phone call was a lie, producing phone and text records that suggested the call was actually regarding harassing calls Cohen had received from a 14-year-old.

While Blanche's line of questioning appeared to gain momentum for the defense in the trial, legal analysts noted that juries typically make judgments based on an overall view of the evidence presented. Cohen managed to withstand the onslaught in the afternoon session, dampening any further impact on his credibility.

One crucial aspect of the trial revolves around the involvement of Allen Weisselberg, the former chief financial officer of the Trump Organization, who allegedly shared knowledge of the scheme to conceal the true reason for Trump's payment of over $400,000 to Cohen. However, Weisselberg, who is currently serving jail time for perjury and has refused to cooperate with prosecutors, presents credibility issues.

Without Weisselberg's testimony to corroborate Cohen's claims about Trump's reimbursement through the Trump Organization, the prosecution's case relies heavily on Cohen as the sole witness. This potential lack of additional evidence could leave room for reasonable doubt in the minds of the jurors.

The absence of television cameras in the trial has forced Americans to rely on second-hand descriptions of the courtroom proceedings, with media outlets playing a crucial role in conveying the details to the public. However, media critic David Zurawik criticized the lack of live coverage, emphasizing the importance of letting people judge for themselves the significance of this political moment.

In another high-profile trial, New Jersey Senator Robert Menendez is facing bribery charges that may end his three-decade-long congressional career. Despite the allegations, Menendez and Texas Representative Henry Cuellar, who also faces bribery charges, have both refused to resign.

As the trial proceeds, public attention remains fixated on the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Last week's events, including a Russian strike in northeast Ukraine and an attempted assassination in Slovakia, highlighted the instability in the region caused by Russian President Vladimir Putin's invasion. Analysts point out that this conflict has far-reaching consequences for Europe and could shape the continent's future for years to come.

On the political front, an eagerly anticipated debate between President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump is scheduled for June 27 on CNN, with another debate planned for September 10 on ABC. This early debate signifies the significance both candidates attach to this election cycle and gives Biden an opportunity to perform on the national stage and dispel concerns about his age and poll numbers.

Meanwhile, CNN Opinion presents the stories of individuals who continue working well past the average retirement age. These individuals challenge societal expectations around aging and assert that staying mentally and physically active is the key to longevity.

As the trial continues and the nation awaits the jury's decision, the credibility battle surrounding Michael Cohen remains a critical factor that could sway the outcome of the case against former President Donald Trump.