Trump to meet with Zelensky and Netanyahu

Washington has become the focal point of high-stakes diplomatic meetings as U.S. President Donald Trump hosts Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy within a single day. The visits come amid ongoing geopolitical tensions and the aftermath of the sudden death of influential U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham, whose passing has intensified pressure on Congress to pass long-awaited sanctions against Russia. The two-day funeral services for Graham, who was a staunch supporter of both Israel and Ukraine, began in Washington with a ceremony at the Capitol, honoring his more than three-decade-long service to the Republican Party. Trump later attended a memorial service at the National Cathedral, reflecting on Graham’s legacy as a fierce critic of Russian aggression and Iranian influence. Graham, who died unexpectedly from heart complications on July 11, had been a key figure in pushing for stronger measures against Moscow, particularly through economic sanctions. His death has prompted renewed calls for legislative action, especially among Senate Republicans, many of whom were close allies. Netanyahu and Zelenskyy arrived in Washington shortly after the funeral proceedings, each seeking direct engagement with Trump. Netanyahu's meeting with the president focused heavily on Iran, with reports suggesting he aimed to secure support for further Israeli military actions. Trump, known for his pragmatic approach, reportedly listened carefully to Netanyahu’s arguments before offering reassurances. Meanwhile, Zelenskyy pressed Trump for additional Patriot missile licenses and tougher sanctions against Russia, emphasizing the need for continued Western backing in the face of escalating Russian attacks. Both leaders expressed gratitude for American support, though their interactions reflected different levels of rapport, Zelenskyy appeared to have gained greater respect from Trump in recent months. Separately, the United States confirmed plans for a new round of talks between Israel and Lebanon in Rome, scheduled for August 4–6. These discussions aim to advance the implementation of a June agreement that outlines a framework for peace and security in southern Lebanon. The plan includes the gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces from designated pilot zones while allowing Lebanese armed groups to take control and disarm the Iranian-backed Hezbollah militia. This model is intended to be expanded to other areas over time, marking a potential step toward broader regional stability. Meanwhile, wildfires continue to plague multiple regions in Europe. In Portugal, emergency crews battled several forest fires, with over 1,000 firefighters supported by 20 aircraft working to contain blazes in central and northern areas. High temperatures, exceeding 39 degrees Celsius, have led to extreme fire risk conditions nationwide. These fires follow a major blaze earlier this month that destroyed nearly 13,000 hectares of land, although the country has largely avoided large-scale outbreaks in recent weeks. In Austria, lawmakers approved a decision to extend compulsory military service from six to nine months, effective January 2027. The change requires a two-thirds majority in parliament, which the ruling coalition is currently negotiating with opposition parties. As a militarily neutral nation outside NATO, Austria aims to strengthen its defense capabilities in response to growing regional instability and increased demands for European solidarity in security matters.