📰 Associated Press · 90

Labour's Andy Burnham wins a special UK election, setting up a showdown with Starmer
Andy Burnham, the mayor of Greater Manchester, has won a special UK election for a parliamentary seat, positioning him as a potential challenger to Prime Minister Keir Starmer within the Labour Party. Burnham defeated Rob Kenyon of Reform UK in the seat of Makerfield. The win comes amid declining popularity for Starmer, who faces criticism over economic challenges, public service issues, and controversial appointments such as Peter Mandelson as the UK ambassador to the United States. Senior Labour figures have called for Starmer's resignation following poor results in May's local elections.

I Went to Trump’s New Reflecting Pool. I Found Something Floating. Then I Drowned in Metaphors.
The article describes the author's visit to Washington's Reflecting Pool following President Trump's renovation project. The pool, intended to be painted 'American flag blue,' now appears green due to algae growth and peeling sealant. The author uses this observation as a metaphor for the Trump administration.

Exclusive: Trump tells The Axios Show there are "no limits" to his power after Iran war
In an exclusive interview with 'The Axios Show,' President Donald Trump discussed his handling of the Iran war, stating that he believes there are 'no limits' to his power. Trump explained that he entered the conflict seeking 'unconditional surrender' but ended up negotiating a limited memorandum of understanding to avoid a global economic depression. He denied being humbled by the experience and insisted that the U.S. military achieved total victory, including a successful naval blockade. Trump also addressed criticism from his hawkish supporters, suggesting that further military action would

U.S. and Iran peace talks postponed and U.K. PM Keir Starmer braces for leadership battle: Morning Rundown
Peace talks between the U.S. and Iran have been postponed following Vice President JD Vance's cancellation of a planned trip to Switzerland. This decision comes amid intensified Israeli strikes in Lebanon, which have raised concerns about the future of efforts to end the ongoing conflict. The talks were meant to begin a 60-day negotiation period aimed at resolving key long-term issues and achieving a permanent cessation of hostilities. Switzerland's foreign ministry confirmed that the meeting at the Bürgenstock resort will not proceed, though no specific reason for the postponement has been给出.

Graham Platner - Yes, Collins usually votes with Trump, as Platner said. But she broke with him at key moments.
Senator Susan Collins, a Republican from Maine, typically votes in alignment with former President Donald Trump, supporting his positions approximately 95% of the time in 2025, according to CQ Roll Call. This figure was slightly lower during Trump's first term, at around 90%. Despite this alignment, Collins has occasionally opposed Trump on significant issues. Her campaign emphasizes bipartisan values, reflected by the frequent use of the term 'bipartisan' on her official website. However, her Democratic opponent, Graham Platner, criticized her for being a 'rubber stamp' for Trump, questioning

Iran says the deal to end the war with the US requires Israel to withdraw from Lebanon
Iran's top diplomat stated that a tentative deal to end the war with the U.S. would require Israel to withdraw from Lebanon, a condition Israel has rejected. The deal, not yet publicly disclosed, involves the U.S. and Iran but does not include Israel. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi claimed Israel's presence in southern Lebanon violates the terms of the agreement. A U.S. official denied that the deal includes such a requirement, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu indicated Israel would maintain its position in Lebanon.
World shares are mixed and US futures fall after a tech-led rally on Wall St
World shares are mixed following a tech-led rally on Wall Street, while U.S. futures decline.
Alleged mastermind behind foiled UFC terror plot is an Obama-era 'Dreamer' in U.S. illegally
The Department of Homeland Security announced that Abraham Alvarez, an undocumented Mexican national who benefited from the Obama-era DACA program, was the alleged mastermind behind a foiled terror plot targeting the UFC Freedom 250 event at the White House. Alvarez entered the U.S. in 2001 on a tourist visa, which expired, but he remained in the country. He was granted deferred action under DACA in 2014. Prosecutors allege Alvarez planned to attack President Trump and other high-profile individuals using explosive drones and snipers. Four other suspects were also charged in connection with a
Weekend negotiations are on hold, Vance's push to get Iran talks started hits an early bump
U.S. Vice President JD Vance's planned trip to Switzerland for initial talks with Iran has been postponed, according to a White House statement. The delay comes shortly after a bilateral agreement was signed, which allows for a 60-day period of negotiations regarding Iran's nuclear program and restoring oil traffic through the Strait of Hormuz to pre-war levels. Vance had intended to travel to a Swiss village for the discussions, but logistical challenges prevented the trip from proceeding. The White House emphasized that such negotiations are inherently complex and unpredictable.

Market Attuned to UK Political Changes, Wytenus Says
Erik Wytenus, JPMorgan Private Bank EMEA head of investment strategy, comments on markets' response to Andy Burnham's win in the Makerfield special election. He notes that markets are attuned to UK political changes and suggests focusing on private-sector initiatives for investment.

No Joke: Comedian Carlos Mencia Faces 12 Felony Charges for Failing to Report $8M+ in Earnings
Comedian Carlos Mencia has been arrested and charged with 12 felony counts related to failing to report and pay taxes on over $8 million in earnings. The charges include six counts of failure to file personal income tax and six for corporate taxes. Prosecutors stated Mencia owes more than $300,000 in state taxes. He was arrested at his Los Angeles home and remains in custody pending his first court appearance. The charges were brought under the newly established Business Tax Fraud Unit by District Attorney Nathan Hochman.
Trump wins two, loses one as billionaire delivers rare blow to endorsement machine and more top headlines
Fox News reports on several key developments including a billionaire challenging Trump's endorsement machine, a mom's phone call disrupting an alleged plot against a White House-related UFC event, and Trump dismissing a $300 billion Iran investment report as false. Other major headlines include primary election results, financial scrutiny of NBA player Karmelo Anthony, a warning from a convicted killer about another inmate, safety concerns at beaches, and a hospital shooting in Delaware. Political updates cover Senate actions related to Trump's Iran deal, housing supply issues, and a governor劝

UK unveils sweeping social media ban for users under 16
The U.K. government, led by Prime Minister Keir Starmer, plans to implement a ban on social media use for individuals under 16 years old. This measure applies to major platforms such as Snapchat, TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, and X. Messaging apps like WhatsApp and Signal will remain unaffected. Additionally, AI-based 'romantic companion' chatbots will be restricted to users aged 18 and older. The U.K. claims this regulation will be more extensive than any previously enacted by other nations. Other countries, including Australia, Canada, France, and Denmark, are also exploring similar
One-year-old dead after police shooting outside a Mississippi Walmart
The article headline reports on a one-year-old who died after being shot by police outside a Walmart in Mississippi. However, the provided text does not include the full content of the article, only a list of headlines and video segments from NBC News.
Ebola cases increase almost 40% in a week as death toll passes 200
Ebola cases have increased by nearly 40% in a week, with the death toll surpassing 200.

Man Forced Boy, 3, Into Crocodile Pen at English Zoo, Police Say
A 3-year-old boy was critically injured after being placed in a crocodile enclosure at a zoo in England. A 30-year-old man from Norfolk has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder. The incident occurred at Johnsons of Old Hurst, a family-run zoo outside Cambridge. Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the event.

States are cracking down on AI data centers. Your electricity bill is why
Eleven U.S. states have introduced legislation to impose temporary bans on the expansion of AI data centers, citing concerns over increasing energy consumption and rising electricity costs.

Africa CDC Warns Congo Ebola Outbreak Could Be Worst in History
Jean Kaseya, director of the Africa Centers for Disease Control (Africa CDC), warned that the ongoing Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) could become the worst in history if containment efforts fail. He noted that many individuals exposed to the virus remain untraced and untested. While the current outbreak has resulted in 782 cases and 181 deaths, health officials believe the actual numbers may be significantly higher due to challenges in diagnosis and tracking, including political instability and resistance from local populations. The outbreak, officially declared a
Obama Center opens in Chicago with a call to defend democracy and a celebrity crowd
The Obama Center opened in Chicago with a focus on defending democracy and was attended by celebrities.

Trump's fight with Anthropic is now a fight over cybersecurity
The Trump administration's restrictions on Anthropic's AI models have raised concerns among cybersecurity experts about potential negative impacts on U.S. cyber defenses. Prominent security leaders, including former Facebook security chief Alex Stamos, have criticized the administration's actions, warning that they could discourage American AI companies from developing tools that help identify and fix vulnerabilities. An open letter signed by nearly 150 security professionals called for the reversal of these restrictions. The dispute arose following Anthropic's release of its first Mythos-5 AI
Vance, skeptical of foreign wars, becomes the face of Trump’s Iran war deal
The article discusses J.D. Vance, who is skeptical of foreign wars, becoming the face of former President Donald Trump's Iran war deal.
Mississippi cop put on leave after involvement in a shooting that killed a baby boy
A police officer in Senatobia, Mississippi, has been placed on administrative leave following a shooting at a Walmart that resulted in the death of a 1-year-old boy, Kohen Wiley. The incident occurred when police responded to a shoplifting report. According to the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation, the officer shot at a vehicle driven by Kohen's mother and another woman, who had nearly collided with a police car. The child was pronounced dead at a nearby hospital, while the other adult was seriously injured. The Tate County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that an officer opened fire during the sc
FDA panel backs first-of-its-kind flu vaccine using mRNA technology
An FDA panel has approved the first-of-its-kind flu vaccine utilizing mRNA technology.

Washington, DC, voters cast ballots in crucial primaries as Trump reshapes capital
Voters in Washington, DC, are participating in primaries to elect a new mayor and congressional delegate, with Democratic candidates expected to win in the general election. The races highlight the city's complex relationship with the Trump administration, as well as the introduction of ranked choice voting, which may delay results.

VIDEO – NYC: 18-Year-Old Dies After Being Thrown from Runaway Horse-Drawn Carriage in Central Park
An 18-year-old tourist, Romanch Mahajan, died after being thrown from a runaway horse-drawn carriage in New York City's Central Park. The incident occurred when the horse, named Sampson, became spooked and bolted while the victim and his family were riding near Tavern on the Green. Video footage captured the horse running, the carriage tipping over, and the victim being thrown from the vehicle. The driver was reportedly not in the carriage at the time and was allegedly taking photos of passengers. Authorities are investigating the cause of the incident.

SpaceX shoots 19% higher in first day of trading
SpaceX shares rose 11% in initial trades, giving the company a market capitalization of $1.97 trillion and placing it among the top 10 largest U.S. companies. The stock was priced at $135 before trading began, and if included in the S&P 500, it would represent more than 5% of the index. Elon Musk expressed skepticism about SpaceX’s chances of success prior to the IPO. Analysts note that SpaceX’s valuation is based on sales rather than profits, raising concerns about whether it aligns with fundamental business metrics. However, similar high valuations are common among top-performing S&P 500 equ
Slovakia’s government wins parliamentary confidence vote over debt exceeding constitutional limit
Slovakia's government has won a parliamentary confidence vote despite concerns over national debt exceeding constitutional limits.
Hegseth attacks NATO allies and announces a review of US forces in Europe
The article reports that Hegseth has criticized NATO allies and announced a review of U.S. military presence in Europe.

Attack sets fire to centuries-old religious site in Kyiv and kills 5 in Kharkiv
Russian attacks on Ukraine resulted in five rescuer deaths in Kharkiv and significant damage in Kyiv, including fires at civilian infrastructure and a historic religious site. Ukrainian officials described the attacks as deliberate targeting of civilian areas.

Gas dips below $4 a gallon after months of pump pain
The U.S. national average gas price has fallen below $4 a gallon, according to AAA, marking a decrease after months of high prices linked to tensions in Iran. The drop follows reports of an extended ceasefire agreement between the U.S. and Iran, which aims to ease oil traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. Despite this, U.S. pump prices are expected to stay above pre-war levels. Diesel prices remain above $5 per gallon but have also decreased from recent peaks. The article notes that while gas prices have eased, President Trump faces continued political challenges related to the issue, as manyU

Bernie Sanders is pushing to give the American public a 50% stake in top AI companies
Bernie Sanders has introduced legislation proposing a one-time stock transfer from major AI companies to establish a $7 trillion fund, which would grant the American public a 50% stake in these firms.

Trump at G7: Iran Deal Will Bring 'A Lot of Success to the World’; Demining Process Underway, Strait of Hormuz to Fully Open Friday
President Donald Trump stated during a bilateral meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron at the G7 that the Iran nuclear deal would bring 'a lot of success to the world.' He also mentioned that the demining process in the Strait of Hormuz is underway and that the strait will be fully open by Friday. Trump noted that the deal was signed and that relations with Iran have improved under new leadership. He also commented on falling oil prices and rising stock markets.
Europe hit by El Niño: Serious problems expected across the continent
The article discusses the potential impacts of the El Niño phenomenon across Europe, including extreme weather conditions such as heatwaves, droughts, and floods. It notes that the last El Niño event contributed to record-breaking global temperatures and severe weather events worldwide. Meteorological forecasts suggest that 2026 could be among the hottest years on record. The European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts predicts above-average temperatures during summer and early autumn in much of Europe. Experts warn that reduced rainfall due to El Niño could threaten energy production,
Taiwan needs US weapons for self-defense as threat from China grows, diplomat tells AP
A diplomat told AP News that Taiwan requires U.S. military equipment to defend itself against increasing threats from China.

US and Iran sign initial deal to end war, ease sanctions and open strait as nuclear talks continue
The United States and Iran have signed an initial agreement aimed at ending the conflict between them, easing sanctions, and opening the Strait of Hormuz. This development occurs alongside ongoing nuclear negotiations.
Families of kids with disabilities warn of chaos and roadblocks in Education Department changes
Parents of children with disabilities express concerns about increased challenges and delays in addressing issues like bullying and discrimination following recent reorganization of responsibilities within the U.S. Department of Education. Under new changes, the Department of Justice will handle civil rights enforcement in schools, while the Department of Health and Human Services will oversee special education. Advocates argue this shift could hinder support for students with disabilities by placing responsibility in a health-focused agency rather than an educational one.

Jim VandeHei: Writing with AI
The article discusses the author's personal experience using AI for writing, highlighting both the potential benefits and risks. The author argues that while AI can enhance thinking and expression when used persistently and skillfully, it can also lead to lazy thinking and writing if misused. The author shares cautionary insights from his own experience and his wife's perspective on the importance of 'soul writing.' The piece concludes with a commitment by Axios to remain transparent about its use of AI.
'A million years isn’t enough': Victims' relatives confront Gilgo Beach serial killer at sentencing
Victims' relatives addressed the court during the sentencing of the Gilgo Beach serial killer, expressing their anguish and demanding justice.
Putin hosts leaders of Southeast Asian nations, seeking to boost their business ties
Russian President Vladimir Putin is hosting leaders of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in Kazan for a two-day meeting aimed at strengthening business and strategic partnerships. The event marks the 35th anniversary of Russia-ASEAN relations. Putin expressed confidence that the summit would create new opportunities for trade, investment, and industrial cooperation between Russia and ASEAN countries.

Oklahoma pastor drops out of runoff for Hern's House seat after Trump withdraws endorsement
Tulsa pastor Jackson Lahmeyer, who had been endorsed by former President Donald Trump, has dropped out of the Republican primary runoff for Oklahoma's 1st Congressional District following a texting scandal that damaged his campaign.
Georgia Republican legislative leaders reject governor’s call for 2028 redistricting
Georgia Republican legislative leaders have rejected the governor's proposal for redistricting maps to be drawn up in 2028.

Trump Defends Deal to End the War With Iran as Details Emerge
President Trump defended his recent deal to end the war with Iran, criticizing critics who argue it is less favorable than the 2015 agreement under President Barack Obama. He also warned that he would consider bombing Iran again if the country violates the new deal.

STAT+: Abridge inks deals with Nvidia and Lilly
Health care AI company Abridge has formed new partnerships with pharmaceutical giant Eli Lilly and chipmaker Nvidia. The collaborations aim to enhance Abridge's platform, which assists clinicians with documentation and decision-making during patient visits. Abridge, already used by numerous health systems, showcased updates to its software at an event in New York.
Read the transcript of the deal between the US and Iran
The article provides a transcript of the agreement reached between the United States and Iran.

Trump accepts Macron's invite to Palace of Versailles dinner to celebrate US 250th birthday
French President Emmanuel Macron has invited U.S. President Donald Trump to a dinner at the Palace of Versailles to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States. The event was confirmed by Macron's office, and Trump expressed enthusiasm for attending, noting his appreciation for historical sites. The Palace of Versailles, historically significant as the former residence of French monarchs, has previously hosted notable events, including a G7 dinner in 2023. Trump is currently in France for the G7 summit.
Fox enters new era with Roku deal
Fox has agreed to a $22 billion deal to acquire Roku, marking a significant shift in the streaming industry and representing a strategic move for the Murdoch media empire. The acquisition would allow Fox to expand its reach through Roku's platform, which serves over 100 million global households, and combine it with its existing AVOD network Tubi to form a major digital advertising entity. The deal also provides Roku with an exit strategy amid increasing competition from tech giants such as Amazon and Google.

Mbappé's double fires France, Messi hat trick sends Argentina flying
Kylian Mbappé scored twice as France defeated Senegal 3-1 in their World Cup opener, surpassing Pelé with 14 career World Cup goals. Lionel Messi scored a hat trick as Argentina beat Algeria 3-0, equaling Miroslav Klose as the all-time leading scorer in World Cup history.
Zelenskyy says G7 leaders pledge more vital help for Ukraine against Russia
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that G7 leaders have pledged additional critical support for Ukraine in its ongoing conflict with Russia.

G7 leaders back Trump on plan to end Iran war
The G7 leaders issued a joint statement supporting President Trump's efforts to end the Iran war during their summit in France. The statement addressed various geopolitical issues including those related to Ukraine.
Trump delays his own national intelligence nominee, fueling tension with fellow Republicans
President Donald Trump has delayed the nomination of John Clayton for the position of Director of National Intelligence. Despite this delay, the committee chairman has pledged to hold a hearing regarding the nomination.
Robert White Jr. wins Democratic primary for the District of Columbia’s delegate to Congress
Robert White Jr. has won the Democratic primary for the District of Columbia's delegate to Congress.
Trump-backed Moore wins GOP runoff for US Senate in Alabama, as Democrats focus on rising costs
In a runoff election for the U.S. Senate seat in Alabama, former state chief justice Roy Moore, backed by Donald Trump, has won the Republican nomination. Meanwhile, Democrats are focusing their attention on rising costs.
A person is in custody in a Chicago cross burning investigation, police say
A person has been taken into custody in connection with an investigation into a cross burning incident in Chicago, according to local police.

Graham Platner Had a Much Better Primary Result Than Lindsey Graham
The article compares the primary election results of Graham Platner, an anti-establishment Democrat in Maine, with those of Lindsey Graham, an establishment Republican in South Carolina, noting that Platner performed significantly better.
Iran says the deal to end the war with the US requires Israel to withdraw from Lebanon
Iran has stated that any agreement to end the conflict with the United States would require Israel to withdraw from Lebanon.
OpenAI files confidential SEC paperwork for IPO, opening the door to a Wall Street debut
OpenAI has filed preliminary, confidential paperwork with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), signaling its potential move toward an initial public offering (IPO). This development positions OpenAI as part of a growing group of major artificial intelligence companies preparing for Wall Street debuts, including rivals like Anthropic and SpaceX. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman previously indicated that an IPO could be the most viable path for the company due to its size and the substantial capital required for technological advancement. The company emphasized that no final decisions haveyet

Yum! Brands sells struggling Pizza Hut in $2.7 billion deal
Yum! Brands has announced plans to sell Pizza Hut in a $2.7 billion deal, splitting ownership between a U.S. private equity firm and a Chinese restaurant company. Pizza Hut (excluding mainland China) will be sold to LongRange Capital for $1.5 billion, while Pizza Hut China will be sold by Yum! China for $1.2 billion. The move follows declining comparable-store sales, prompting Yum! Brands to explore options for Pizza Hut since November. Pizza Hut was founded in 1958 and was acquired by PepsiCo in 1977 before becoming part of Yum! Brands.

Russian Warship Fires Warning Shots Near British Yacht
The UK reported that a Russian warship fired warning shots near a British yacht outside of UK territorial waters, aiming to avoid a potential collision. The incident occurred approximately 20 nautical miles south of the Isle of Wight.

‘Spider-Man of Yemen’ Plunges to His Death While Scaling Volcanic Crater
An adventurer known as 'The Spider-Man of Yemen,' Al-Qaqa Ibn Antar, died after falling into the volcanic crater of the Hardah Dam in Yemen. He was climbing without safety equipment when he lost his grip and fell approximately 393 feet. Yemen's Civil Defense Authority shared footage of the incident and the subsequent search-and-rescue operation, which took four hours to recover his body from beneath the water. Antar had gained attention online for his extreme climbs of Yemen's challenging landscapes.
Judge who had sex in courthouse and attended political event agrees to exit Georgia election case
A judge involved in a Georgia election case has agreed to step down following allegations of inappropriate conduct, including having sexual relations in a courthouse and attending a political event.

Judge Blocks Trump’s Attempt To Rein In H-1B Visa Program
A federal judge in Massachusetts blocked President Donald Trump's attempt to impose a $100,000 fee on H-1B visa applications, ruling it unconstitutional and in violation of the Administrative Procedure Act. The judge found that the policy exceeded the executive branch's authority to set fees and encroached on Congress's power to tax. The decision came after legal action from 20 Democrat-led states. The Trump administration plans to appeal the ruling. The H-1B visa program allows U.S. employers to hire skilled foreign workers temporarily, with tech and finance industries relying heavily on such

Bank of Japan raises interest rates to a 31-year high as inflation and a weak yen pile on pressure
The Bank of Japan increased its policy rate to 1%, the highest level in 31 years, following a 7-1 decision by the central bank's board.

Trump Plans to Protect Methane-Leaking Stripper Wells. This Billionaire Donor Will Benefit.
The article reports on plans by the Trump administration's Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to roll back regulations on oil and gas wells that emit significant amounts of methane but produce minimal energy. It highlights that these changes would benefit Jeffery Hildebrand, a major Trump donor and oil billionaire. The piece also mentions that a former Hildebrand lobbyist is involved in revising the EPA's methane rules and has sought input from oil industry groups supported by Hildebrand.
Photos show the resurfaced remains of World War II’s ‘Death Railway’ in Thailand
Photos have been released showing the resurfaced remains of World War II's 'Death Railway' in Thailand.
Trump’s Iran deal greeted with skepticism and scrutiny on Capitol Hill
The article reports on the reaction to Trump's Iran deal on Capitol Hill, noting that it has been met with skepticism and scrutiny.
California Gov. Gavin Newsom says Trump's Justice Department is investigating him and his wife
California Governor Gavin Newsom stated that the Trump administration's Justice Department is investigating him and his wife.
Is removal of Trump's name from Kennedy Center a metaphor?
The article discusses the removal of former President Donald Trump's name from the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts following a court ruling that the rebranding as the 'Trump Kennedy Center' was unlawful. It suggests this action might symbolize a broader shift away from Trump's influence. The piece critiques Trump's continued public presence, repeated claims about the 2020 election, and reluctance to step back from the spotlight. It references a Bible verse implying that Trump ignored sound advice.
Even with a deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, it could take weeks or months for oil to fully flow
The article states that even if a deal is reached to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, it may take weeks or months before oil begins flowing freely again.
Ukraine starts EU membership talks and faces years of reforms while fighting Russia
Ukraine has officially begun EU membership negotiations, requiring significant political and economic reforms. Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister Taras Kachka emphasized the importance of EU accession as a response to Russian aggression. Moldova also initiated its EU membership talks. The process involves completing 35 policy areas, which could take years.

The Knicks are the (only) talk of the town
The New York Knicks made an unprecedented comeback in Game 4 of the NBA Finals, overcoming a 29-point deficit against the San Antonio Spurs to secure a 107-106 victory. This brought them within one win of their first championship in over five decades. Following the game, some New York politicians and fans attributed the victory to being rid of 'Trump curse' energy, referencing President Donald Trump's attendance at Game 3. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez expressed gratitude for those who helped 'cleanse' Madison Square Garden, while Queens Borough President Donovan Richards linked the win to the
Iran and US reach an initial deal to end the war and open the Strait of Hormuz but challenges remain
Iran and the United States have reached an initial agreement aimed at ending the conflict and reopening the Strait of Hormuz, though significant challenges still need to be addressed.
Visa plugs its payment network into ChatGPT, letting AI agents shop and pay for users
Payments giant Visa has integrated its payment network into ChatGPT, allowing the AI chatbot to shop and complete transactions on behalf of users. This partnership enables AI agents to recommend products and make purchases at any merchant that accepts Visa. Unlike OpenAI's earlier Instant Checkout feature, which was discontinued due to adoption issues, Visa's integration aims to streamline the process for both users and merchants by linking Visa cards directly to ChatGPT.

Political blame game follows as screwworm parasite threatens cattle in Texas
U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins visited a Texas ranch affected by the return of the New World screwworm, a parasitic fly that poses a threat to the cattle industry. Rollins blamed the previous Biden administration for the resurgence of the pest, while Democratic leaders attribute the issue to budget cuts during the Trump administration. Screwworms, which lay eggs in open wounds of warm-blooded animals, are being controlled through the release of sterile flies. Climate change is exacerbating the challenge by expanding the pests' habitat.
Large-scale Russian attack sparks fire at historic monastery and other sites in Ukraine, in photos
A large-scale Russian attack caused fires at a historic monastery and other locations in Ukraine.
Lawmakers fight to stop the Trump administration's dismantling of a $386M ocean observatory project
Lawmakers are opposing efforts by the Trump administration to dismantle a $386 million ocean observatory project.

Son of Norway’s Crown Princess Is Convicted of Rape
Marius Borg Hoiby, the son of Norway's Crown Princess Mette-Marit, was convicted of rape and sentenced to four years in prison. The trial occurred amid increased scrutiny of his mother due to her past associations with Jeffrey Epstein.
Starbucks Korea to close stores early for mandatory history training after marketing row
Starbucks Korea has announced it will close stores early for mandatory history training following a marketing controversy.

The Barenaked Ladies Challenge: If You Have A Million Dollars, Are You Rich?
The article discusses the changing purchasing power of $1 million over time, using the Barenaked Ladies song 'If I Had $1,000,000' as a reference point. It notes that in 1992, $1 million would have been significantly more valuable than it is today due to inflation. The piece provides specific examples of how prices for housing, medical care, food, and education have risen since 1992, while the cost of emus has decreased. It also mentions the rising cost of college tuition.

Historic Orthodox Cathedral Burns in Russian Attack on Kyiv
A historic Orthodox cathedral was damaged in an attack by Russia on Kyiv. A bishop mentioned that several sacred objects were retrieved from the cathedral located at the Perchersk monastery, which holds significance for both Ukrainian and Russian Orthodox communities.

Early results show Swiss voters reject right-wing's bid to cap population at 10 million
Voters in Switzerland have rejected an initiative proposed by the right-wing Swiss People's Party to limit the country's population to 10 million. Early results indicate that around 53% of voters opposed the measure, with high voter turnout reported. The initiative, often referred to as a 'Swiss Brexit,' aimed to address concerns about immigration and its impact on Swiss society and economy. Critics argue that increased migration has contributed positively to key industries, while supporters of the initiative expressed concerns about maintaining national identity and managing integration.
Protesters in Geneva clash with police ahead of the G7 summit in nearby France
Protesters in Geneva clashed with police ahead of the G7 summit taking place in nearby France.
Japan fans use blue bags to uphold a cleansing World Cup tradition after draw
Japanese fans used blue bags during a World Cup match following a draw, continuing a tradition associated with cleaning up after games.
Sen. Mitch McConnell admitted to the hospital, spokesperson says
Sen. Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., was admitted to the hospital on Sunday, according to his spokesperson. The spokesperson stated that McConnell is receiving excellent care but provided no additional details about his condition or the reason for hospitalization. McConnell, 84, has had multiple health issues in recent years, including previous hospitalizations for flu-like symptoms, a concussion from a fall, and a fractured shoulder. Concerns have also been raised about his mental fitness for office due to instances where he appeared disoriented during public appearances and has used a wheelchair at

Cluster of Earthquakes Hits Philippines Days After Deadly Quake
A series of moderate earthquakes occurred in the southern Philippines following a deadly magnitude 7.8 earthquake that recently struck the region. At least five quakes with magnitudes between 4.6 and 5.2 were recorded near Mindanao, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). These quakes occurred at depths ranging from 21 to 44 miles. The recent earthquake killed at least 37 people and displaced around 20,000 others, causing damage to infrastructure and triggering tsunami warnings. Seismologists note the area's tectonic activity and history of large earthquakes.

Baby formula sold at Target recalled after multistate infant botulism outbreak
Nara Organics has recalled its organic baby formula sold at Target stores and online due to a multistate outbreak of infant botulism.

Trump and Pakistan say Iran deal could be signed Sunday but Tehran signals more time is needed
Pakistan indicates that a deal to end the Iran conflict is nearing completion, with Tehran showing signs of optimism. However, Tehran suggests additional time is required before finalizing the agreement.

Brazil rallies for 1-1 draw against Morocco in its World Cup opener
Brazil faced Morocco in their World Cup opener, with Brazil needing a goal from Vinícius Júnior in the 32nd minute to secure a 1-1 draw. The match did not reflect typical Brazilian 'Samba' style soccer, and Brazil struggled early in the game.
Trump’s name is gone from the Kennedy Center’s facade after court rulings
The name 'Trump' has been removed from the Kennedy Center's facade following court rulings.

A woman's hypothermia death in Pittsburgh after her release from ICE custody is ruled a homicide
A medical examiner has determined that the death of a Haitian asylum seeker who died of hypothermia after being released from ICE custody was a homicide. Her attorney stated that her family plans to file a lawsuit against Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Lebanese army withdraws from southern village after Israeli troops advance nearby
The Lebanese army has withdrawn from a southern village following the advancement of Israeli troops in the area.