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World News

Fresh news brought to you daily from around the world. Hot news, breaking stories as they happen.

New York Times Reporters Subpoenaed Over Air Force One Report

Several New York Times journalists have been subpoenaed to testify under oath after reporting on alleged security concerns surrounding President Donald Trump's new Air Force One aircraft.

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According to the newspaper, federal agents delivered subpoenas to some reporters at their homes, ordering them to appear before a federal grand jury investigating a possible federal crime.
Journalists Ordered to Testify
The Justice Department confirmed it is investigating alleged illegal leaks of classified information but said the journalists themselves are not the focus of the inquiry.
Reports Raised Security Questions
The New York Times recently published reports citing unnamed sources who claimed the Boeing 747-8, donated by Qatar, lacked key security capabilities required for presidential travel.
One report said the Secret Service advised Trump to switch to an older Air Force One aircraft for his return journey after attending a Nato summit in Turkey. Another said officials were concerned the newer plane did not yet include advanced defensive systems, including anti-missile protection.
Other media outlets, including CBS News, also reported similar concerns. A former US government official told CBS there had not been enough time or funding to equip the aircraft with all the security features needed for Air Force One service.
Press Freedom Concerns
The subpoenas reportedly require the journalists to appear before a grand jury in Manhattan to provide testimony regarding an alleged violation of federal criminal law.
David McCraw, the New York Times' senior newsroom lawyer, condemned the move, describing it as a "brazen act" aimed at intimidating journalists and discouraging reporting on matters of public interest.
The newspaper noted that while leaking classified information can be a criminal offence, the US Constitution protects the press's right to publish information in the public interest.
The Justice Department said it recognises the importance of a free press but also has a responsibility to investigate the unauthorised disclosure of classified information.
Trump Dismisses Concerns
The reports emerged during a period of heightened tensions with Iran, as the United States carried out military strikes while diplomatic efforts over a ceasefire continued.
Asked about the reported security concerns, Trump dismissed them, saying: "I have a threat all the time. I'm No. 1 on their list."
Last month, Trump unveiled the Boeing 747-8 that Qatar donated to the United States as an "unconditional" gift. The aircraft, valued at about $400 million (£300 million), was modified for presidential transport.
The US Air Force said the jet received upgrades covering security, communications, logistics support and advanced technology, adding that any identified risks associated with using a previously owned aircraft had been addressed.


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12 July 2026
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Iran Admits Strait Attacks Were a Mistake, US Says

Iranian officials have privately told advisers to U.S. President Donald Trump that attacks on commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz were a mistake and were carried out by an "errant" group of hardliners seeking to derail ongoing negotiations, according to senior U.S. officials.

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The officials said Tehran has expressed a desire to continue talks with Washington, with negotiations scheduled to take place in Oman on Saturday.
The White House is pressing Iran to publicly acknowledge what it describes as a violation of the ceasefire after the attacks on commercial shipping.
Trump Keeps Diplomatic Effort on Track
President Trump has instructed his negotiating team, led by Vice President JD Vance, Jared Kushner, special envoy Steve Witkoff and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, to continue pursuing a diplomatic agreement.
U.S. officials said Washington remains prepared to use military and economic pressure if Iran carries out further hostile actions.
One senior official described Iran's message as an admission of error, saying Tehran had returned to negotiations after acknowledging it had "made a mistake" and wanted discussions to continue.
Dispute Over Shipping Attacks
According to U.S. officials, Iran has claimed the attacks on commercial vessels were initiated by a rogue faction within its system that was attempting to undermine the negotiations.
The Trump administration, however, disputes that explanation. Officials said the United States believes Iran reacted after being surprised by the volume of commercial traffic using the southern shipping lane along the Omani coast.
Washington had expected that route to remain open under an existing memorandum, but officials believe Iran reversed course after seeing how much oil and gas shipping continued through the passage.
Following Saturday's talks, the administration expects Iran to confirm that the Strait of Hormuz will remain open and managed as it was before the recent conflict. One official warned that if Tehran adopts a different position, the outcome would not be favourable for Iran.
Another official described the current situation as a "wait-and-see" moment.
Nuclear Issue Still Looms
U.S. officials said President Trump is allowing negotiators time to seek an agreement, although they stressed that patience is limited.
They also said Washington would prefer to recover what the president has referred to as the "nuclear dust" — the remaining elements of Iran's nuclear programme — through peaceful means. However, officials said other options remain available if Iran does not, in their words, behave like a "normal country."
Officials argued that if Iran cannot honour what Washington considers the simplest part of any agreement — keeping the Strait of Hormuz open to international trade — negotiations are unlikely to progress to the more difficult issue of Iran's nuclear programme.
The officials declined to comment on reports that Israeli intelligence uncovered alleged plots targeting President Trump, but said the president does not make decisions based on fear or threats.

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11 July 2026
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Trump Left Orders to Bomb Iran if He's Assassinated

President Donald Trump has said he has left standing instructions for the United States to launch an overwhelming military strike against Iran if he is assassinated, amid renewed attention on threats against him and heightened tensions between Washington and Tehran.

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Speaking to the New York Post on Friday, Trump said Iran had targeted him for years and claimed he had already directed how the U.S. should respond if such an attack were carried out.
"I've been on their list for a long time. That's what we're dealing with," Trump said. "The only thing is, I've left instructions — if anything happens, to just literally bomb them at levels that they've never seen before."
Assassination Threats
Trump's remarks came a day after The Wall Street Journal reported that Israel had shared intelligence with U.S. officials suggesting there was a new Iranian plot to assassinate the president.
However, Trump dismissed suggestions that Israel had uncovered fresh information.
"No, no. Israel came up with nothing. No, no," he said. "I've been No. 1 [on Iran's kill list] for a long time, and it's the way life is."
CNN, citing U.S. officials, reported that the Israeli intelligence may have been intended to influence Trump's thinking as he considers whether to expand military action against Iran. According to the report, Israel has advocated for stronger military intervention, while Trump has continued to pursue negotiations despite the escalating conflict.
Long-Running Hostility
Iran has been accused of seeking revenge against Trump since he ordered the January 2020 U.S. strike that killed senior Iranian military commander Qassem Soleimani.
Reuters also reported that during funeral processions this week for Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, crowds chanted "Death to America," while banners reading "We Will Kill Trump" were displayed.
Earlier this week, Trump also referred to the threats while speaking to reporters at the NATO summit in Ankara, Turkey.
"I'm their No. 1 target because they're scum," he said.
Questions were also raised after Trump returned from Turkey aboard the older Air Force One rather than the newer aircraft gifted by Qatar. The White House played down any suggestion that the decision reflected increased security concerns.
Military Escalation
Relations between Washington and Tehran have deteriorated sharply in recent days.
The United States carried out strikes on 90 targets inside Iran on Wednesday after Tehran targeted shipping vessels in the strategic strait. The military action marked a significant escalation in the confrontation between the two countries.
On Friday, Trump said Iran had requested that peace talks continue and that Washington had agreed to further negotiations. At the same time, he declared that the ceasefire between the United States and Iran was "over."
Earlier in the week, the president also ended the U.S. sanctions waiver covering Iranian oil exports, increasing economic pressure on Tehran.

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11 July 2026
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Palm Beach Airport Becomes Donald J. Trump International

South Florida's Palm Beach International Airport officially became President Donald J. Trump International Airport on Thursday, with workers beginning to replace signs across the terminal following the formal name change.

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New name unveiled as signage is replaced
Airport officials said the transition would take several weeks, meaning travelers will temporarily see a mix of the airport's previous branding alongside the new identity.
"Because an entire airport transformation doesn't happen overnight, you'll notice a combination of both our classic look and our new brand elements coexisting while traveling through the terminal over the next several weeks," the airport said in a Facebook post.
Trump family marks first day
The first aircraft to arrive under the airport's new name was "Trump Force One," a Boeing 757 owned by The Trump Organization, shortly after 5 a.m. Eric Trump was among those on board.
The Trump family frequently uses the airport when traveling to President Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago residence in nearby Palm Beach. Earlier this year, a road connecting the airport to the estate was renamed Donald J. Trump Boulevard.
Eric Trump welcomed the change in a post on X, saying his father was deserving of the recognition and adding that he would be proud to see the airport's future code, DJT, on his boarding passes.
Although the airport's new name took effect immediately, its three-letter code will remain PBI until Aug. 18, when it is scheduled to change to DJT.
Trump welcomes the move
President Trump also praised the renaming in a post on Truth Social, describing it as "a very big day" for Palm Beach. He thanked local supporters for approving the change and said the airport's ongoing renovation would be "spectacular," calling it one of the world's greatest airports.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed legislation earlier this year authorising the renaming. Officials estimate the project will cost up to $5.5 million, covering new signs, branding and related updates.
Mixed public reaction
Some travellers expressed little concern over the change.
Keegan Collett, who was departing for Cincinnati on Thursday morning, said he did not believe Trump should have an airport named after him but added that the issue was not especially important.
"At the end of the day, it's just the name of an airport," Collett said. "There's bigger things. I feel like it's just more of a distraction. Why even worry about it?"
Elsewhere on Thursday, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, Senators Marsha Blackburn and Bill Hagerty, and Representative Tim Burchett attended a ceremony in Dandridge, Tennessee, to rename the Interstate 40 Bridge as the Donald J. Trump Bridge.
Speaking before the event, Bessent said that "no one is more deserving" of the honour than Trump.
Trump won 82% of the vote in Jefferson County, where Dandridge is located, in the 2024 general election.


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11 July 2026
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Spain Wildfire Kills 12 as Search Continues for 23 Missing

At least 12 people have died and 23 others remain missing after a fast-moving wildfire swept through southern Spain, according to Andalusian regional president Juanma Moreno.

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The blaze broke out in a wooded area near Los Gallardos in Almería province before spreading rapidly towards the nearby village of Bédar. Moreno said early indications suggested the fire may have been triggered by a collapsed power line, although he stressed the cause remained under investigation.
The bodies of the victims were discovered in and around Bédar. Andalusia's health and emergencies minister, Antonio Sanz, described the incident as the most devastating wildfire the region had ever experienced and warned that the death toll could rise.
Foreign nationals among the victims
Officials said many, or possibly all, of those who died may have been foreign nationals.
Four victims were found inside a vehicle, while eight others were discovered elsewhere after apparently attempting to escape the advancing flames. Sanz said the car had a right-hand drive steering wheel and the occupants were believed to be of British origin.
A spokesperson for the UK government said the Foreign Office was in contact with Spanish authorities. Belgium's Foreign Minister, Maxime Prévot, also said consular officials were trying to establish contact with Belgian nationals who had not yet been reached, noting that many Belgians own second homes in Spain.
Sanz said those who died had apparently tried to flee using a route different from the one designated for evacuation.
Four people remain in hospital with serious burns, while another four were treated for minor burns and smoke inhalation.
Fire response and investigation
Around 1,000 residents were evacuated as emergency services closed roads and worked to contain the fire.
Spain's Military Emergency Unit deployed 220 soldiers and 70 vehicles to the affected area, while the Civil Guard assigned 160 officers to assist with evacuations, traffic management and the investigation into the fire's origin.
Moreno said maintenance crews would be held accountable if the investigation confirmed the fire had been caused by a fallen power line. However, electricity company Endesa disputed that suggestion, saying the damaged line was inactive and did not belong to the company.
Peter Chapman, who owns a holiday home near Los Gallardos with his wife, said the smoke spread so quickly they initially believed a storm was approaching.
He described the scene as surreal and said it was difficult to imagine holidaymakers losing their lives in such circumstances.
Extreme heat fuels wildfire risk
The fire comes during a prolonged heatwave that has pushed temperatures in parts of southern Europe to around 40C, contributing to major wildfires in Spain, Portugal and France this summer.
With at least 12 confirmed deaths, the blaze is already among the deadliest wildfires in modern Spanish history. Previous major incidents include the deaths of 11 firefighters near Riba de Saelices in 2005, 20 people on La Gomera in 1984 and 21 people near Lloret de Mar in 1979.
Spain has experienced increasingly severe wildfire seasons in recent years. The government announced its largest-ever summer firefighting operation this year after record-breaking heat in June.
According to the European Forest Fire Information System, a record 393,000 hectares burned in Spain last year, more than six times the country's average between 2006 and 2024.
Scientists say rising global temperatures are increasing the frequency and intensity of heatwaves across Europe, making wildfires more destructive. Europe is warming faster than any other continent, with researchers warning that severe fire seasons are likely to become more common.


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11 July 2026
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UK Police Arrest Suspect in Ann Widdecombe Murder

British police have arrested a 26-year-old man on suspicion of murdering former government minister and Reform UK politician Ann Widdecombe after she was found dead at her home in southwest England.
The 78-year-old was discovered with what police described as "serious injuries" after officers were called to her property shortly after midday on Thursday.

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Former minister found dead at her home
The suspect, a white British man, was arrested on Friday in Newton Abbot, around 9 miles (15km) from Widdecombe's home. He remains in police custody while the investigation continues.
Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman of Devon and Cornwall Police said there was no evidence to suggest the killing was linked to terrorism or politically motivated. Forensic examinations at Widdecombe's home are ongoing.
Tributes paid across politics
Prime Minister Keir Starmer praised Widdecombe's years of public service, paying tribute to her long political career.
Messages of condolence also came from former colleagues in both the Conservative Party and Reform UK following news of her death.
Former Prime Minister Boris Johnson described her on X as "a heroic Brexiteer and a great speaker," saying she could inspire Conservative audiences and was "a very hard act to follow."
Widdecombe became a prominent figure in British politics through her socially conservative views. She served as a junior minister in John Major's Conservative government between 1992 and 1997 before later becoming Reform UK's immigration and justice spokesperson under Nigel Farage.
Long political career
She was an outspoken opponent of abortion and opposed equalising the age of consent for homosexual and heterosexual relationships. During her time in government, she also defended the practice of shackling pregnant prisoners during childbirth to prevent escapes.
A Catholic convert who never married and described herself as a virgin, Widdecombe frequently spoke in support of traditional family values.
Following her departure from Parliament, she gained a new audience by appearing on the BBC dance competition Strictly Come Dancing in 2010. Although judges criticised her performances, viewers kept her in the competition for several weeks.
She later joined Nigel Farage's Brexit Party and served as a Member of the European Parliament from 2019 to 2020. Most recently, she was Reform UK's immigration spokesperson as the party rose in national opinion polls.
Attacks on British politicians
The investigation comes after two serving British MPs were murdered in the past decade.
Labour MP Jo Cox was shot and stabbed by a far-right extremist during the 2016 Brexit referendum campaign.
In 2021, Conservative MP David Amess was fatally stabbed by a man inspired by the Islamic State militant group.
Police have said there is currently no indication that Widdecombe's killing was connected to her political activities.


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11 July 2026

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Ryanair Passenger Nearly Sucked Out of Window

A Ryanair flight travelling from Greece to Germany was forced to return to its departure airport after a passenger window shattered in mid-air, with local reports claiming one passenger was nearly pulled through the opening before being rescued by his wife.

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The incident happened on Ryanair flight FR1879, operated by Malta Air, which departed Thessaloniki for Memmingen near Munich on Thursday.
Passenger reportedly pulled towards broken window
According to Greek media reports, a 61-year-old Serbian man was partially pulled out of his seat after the aircraft suffered an apparent engine failure that sent debris into an acrylic passenger window, causing it to shatter.


Picture courtesy The Times

The reports said the man was left hanging headfirst outside the aircraft after the cabin rapidly depressurised. His wife reportedly prevented him from being pulled completely through the opening by holding on to his legs until the situation was brought under control.
Michalis Giannakos, president of the Panhellenic Federation of Public Hospital Employees (POEDIN), described the incident as "almost a tragedy", according to the Greek news website Newsit.
The passenger was taken to hospital after landing, reportedly suffering from shock and friction burns caused by exposure to the freezing airflow outside the aircraft.
Emergency return to Thessaloniki
Images and videos shared online showed oxygen masks hanging from the cabin ceiling, indicating the aircraft had experienced a loss of cabin pressure after the window was damaged.
Flight tracking data from FlightRadar24 showed the Boeing 737 remained airborne for just over an hour. The aircraft climbed to around 16,000ft before turning back and landing safely at Thessaloniki Airport.
The circumstances that caused the window to fail have not been officially confirmed.
Ryanair confirms window came loose
In a statement, Ryanair confirmed the aircraft returned shortly after take-off because of a problem with a passenger window.
"A Ryanair flight from Thessaloniki to Memmingen on Friday morning returned to Thessaloniki shortly after takeoff when a passenger window dislodged inflight," a company spokesperson said.
The airline did not comment on reports that a passenger was nearly sucked through the damaged window or provide details on the number of people injured.
It remains unclear whether investigators have confirmed the sequence of events described in local media. The aircraft landed safely, and emergency services met the flight after its return to Thessaloniki.


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10 July 2026
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Poll Finds Majority of Voters See Farage as ‘Very Sleazy’

More than half of British voters now regard Nigel Farage as "very sleazy", according to new YouGov polling, with the Reform UK leader receiving the most negative rating among the country's main party leaders.

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Reform's Image Worsens, YouGov Survey Suggests
The survey found that 56% of respondents described Farage as "very sleazy", while a further 17% said he was "fairly sleazy". That means nearly three-quarters of those questioned held a negative view of the Reform UK leader on the measure. Even among Reform UK supporters, 40% said they considered Farage to be sleazy.
The findings were released as a by-election in Clacton, Farage's constituency, was called for 13 August.
Negative Perceptions of Reform Increase
Writing about the results, YouGov's Dylan Difford said perceptions of Reform UK had become increasingly negative over the past two years.
The poll suggests that 68% of Britons now regard Reform UK as "very sleazy", up from 50% in October 2024, when the Labour government's "freebie-gate" controversy dominated political headlines.


Photograph: Vuk Valcic/ZUMA Press Wire/Shutterstock

The shift was not limited to Reform UK. The proportion of voters describing the Green Party as sleazy has risen sharply over the past 21 months, roughly doubling from 18% to 35%. The Liberal Democrats also recorded an increase, with negative perceptions rising by seven percentage points.
By contrast, views of the current Labour government, the previous Conservative administration and British governments in general have remained broadly stable over the same period.
Poll Reflects Public Perception
The survey measures public opinion rather than making judgments about political conduct. People describing a politician or party as "sleazy" may be expressing concerns about integrity or ethics, but the term can also reflect general political dislike rather than allegations of wrongdoing.
While 73% of respondents described Farage as either very or fairly sleazy, an even larger proportion — 77% — said the same about British governments in general. Of those, 26% said governments were "very sleazy" and 51% said they were "fairly sleazy".
The figures suggest that public distrust extends beyond individual politicians or parties, although perceptions do not necessarily reflect objective assessments of political standards or corruption.

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10 July 2026
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EU Car Rules Could Be Biggest Brexit Blow Yet

The European car industry has urged the European Union to exempt the UK from planned "made in Europe" rules, warning that excluding British manufacturers would disrupt deeply integrated supply chains and weaken the bloc's competitiveness.

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The European Automobile Manufacturers Association (Acea) called on the European Commission to grant the UK, Turkey and Morocco "justified, targeted exemptions" from the proposed rules. Under the plans, only vehicles and components produced within the EU would qualify for subsidies and public procurement contracts.
European carmakers seek UK exemption
The measures form part of the EU's proposed Industrial Accelerator Act (IAA), which is designed to strengthen European industry against growing competition from heavily subsidised Chinese manufacturers.
Although aimed at reducing dependence on Chinese imports, the proposals could become one of the most significant economic consequences of Brexit for Britain's automotive sector because they currently apply only to EU member states.
Brexit impact and industry concerns
Acea said the European automotive industry continues to operate an integrated supply chain with the UK despite Brexit. It argued that vehicles, batteries and components produced in Britain should be treated the same as those made within the EU and have equal access to policy support.
The group's intervention comes as Britain seeks changes to the proposals during talks with Brussels. Europe Minister Nick Thomas-Symonds met EU Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič on Wednesday, with the Industrial Accelerator Act among the issues under discussion.
Mike Hawes, chief executive of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), welcomed Acea's position, saying it reflected the close links between the UK and European automotive industries. He said he hoped EU regulators would take those shared interests into account when finalising the legislation.
Speaking at a London conference on Tuesday, Hawes warned that the proposals could effectively exclude UK-built vehicles from much of the European market. He argued that such an outcome would harm both sides because many UK factories are owned by European manufacturers and the UK and EU remain each other's largest export markets for cars and automotive parts.
Integrated manufacturing network
Acea's membership includes BMW, Volkswagen and Stellantis, which own the Mini, Bentley and Vauxhall manufacturing operations in the UK. Jaguar Land Rover, Ford, Toyota and Nissan are also members with significant production facilities in Britain.
According to reports, Nissan has privately warned that it could be forced to close its Sunderland factory if the rules are implemented without changes. More than half of UK vehicle exports are destined for EU markets.
Several Acea members also operate manufacturing plants in Turkey and Morocco, prompting the organisation to argue that excluding those facilities would leave existing European investments stranded and reduce the industry's competitiveness.
China competition shapes policy
The Industrial Accelerator Act is intended to help protect European manufacturing from an influx of lower-cost Chinese vehicles and components.
Earlier this week, the EU and China agreed to hold three months of diplomatic talks aimed at preventing a wider trade dispute.
Last month, several European trade groups warned that domestic industries risked being undermined by what they described as "China shock 2.0". Concerns have intensified after Volkswagen proposed cutting up to 100,000 jobs across Europe. The EU's trade deficit with China has reached around €1 billion a day and is forecast to approach €400 billion in China's favour by the end of the year.
While Acea is strongly influenced by German manufacturers, the Industrial Accelerator Act is largely driven by France, meaning any significant amendments would require the support of French President Emmanuel Macron. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has also called for stronger action to address China's growing industrial advantage, citing the country's currency policy as a contributor to its trade surplus.

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10 July 2026
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Trump Says Iran Is Denuclearized, Raising New Questions

President Donald Trump is now arguing that Iran has effectively been stripped of its nuclear capability, a position that contrasts with the rationale his administration gave for launching the war earlier this year.

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When the conflict began in February, Trump said Iran posed an imminent nuclear threat. However, critics noted that he had spent months beforehand insisting that U.S. and Israeli strikes in June 2025 had already "obliterated" Iran's nuclear programme.
Trump shifts message on Iran's nuclear threat
Just weeks before the war started, he said those attacks had left Iran without even a "potential capability" to build nuclear weapons.
Now, as the conflict enters its fifth month, Trump is once again describing Iran's nuclear programme as effectively eliminated.
Trump declares war a success
Speaking at a NATO summit in Turkey on Wednesday, Trump rejected suggestions that the war had reached a strategic dead end.
"I was there for one reason: that Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon. I call it, we denuclearize Iran," he said. "And that's happened; they will never have a nuclear weapon."
Trump argued that Iran's nuclear materials are now buried so deeply beneath mountains that they are effectively inaccessible. He also said the United States can monitor the sites and ensure they remain unusable.
"There's no way they have a nuclear weapon," he said.
At another event, Trump was asked how the United States intended to secure Iran's nuclear materials. He suggested that their location effectively placed them under U.S. control.
"We've already got the nuclear material, because it's so far underground," Trump said. "Nobody's going to be able to get it except us."
"They can't get it," he added, calling the outcome "a tremendous success."
Questions over the war's objectives
Trump's latest comments have fuelled questions about the administration's original justification for the conflict.
Throughout the war, administration officials repeatedly described securing or eliminating Iran's nuclear materials as a key objective. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent referred to obtaining the materials as a "red line" only weeks ago.
Trump has increasingly suggested that physically recovering those materials may no longer be necessary because Iran cannot access them and the sites can be monitored remotely.
His latest remarks also add to what critics describe as shifting explanations for the war. Over recent months, the administration has cited multiple objectives, including preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons and, at times, promoting regime change. Trump has also claimed that the killing of senior Iranian leaders amounted to achieving regime change, despite Iran's government remaining in power.
Critics point to inconsistencies
The president's latest position has prompted further questions about why the war continued if Iran's nuclear capability had already been neutralised.
The largest attacks on Iran's nuclear facilities occurred in June 2025, when Trump first declared the programme had been "obliterated." Major combat operations in the current conflict ended with a ceasefire announced on April 7.
If Iran's nuclear materials were already inaccessible, critics ask why the administration continued pursuing a nuclear agreement and maintained that securing those materials remained essential.
Some analysts argue Trump's latest comments suggest he is preparing to reduce U.S. involvement while portraying the campaign as a success, despite key objectives remaining unmet and negotiations with Tehran showing little sign of progress.
The conflict has imposed significant costs, including the deaths of 13 U.S. service members, disruption to the global economy and heightened concern over Iran's demonstrated ability to affect shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Critics argue those consequences may ultimately prove among the war's most enduring outcomes.

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10 July 2026
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Burnham Nears Unopposed Labour Leadership Bid

Andy Burnham is on course to become Labour leader and the UK's next prime minister after securing the backing of 322 Labour MPs in the first round of leadership nominations.

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Burnham, the only declared candidate since nominations opened on Thursday, is just one nomination short of the 323 needed to make it mathematically impossible for another contender to enter the race. Several MPs who were unable to vote on the opening day have indicated they will support him when they return to Parliament.
MP Support Puts Leadership Within Reach
If no rival emerges, as widely expected, Burnham is set to be confirmed as Labour leader next week before taking office as prime minister on 20 July.
The development marks a rapid political ascent for the former Greater Manchester mayor, who only recently returned to Westminster after winning the Makerfield by-election.
Burnham Outlines Vision for Labour
Responding to the wave of support, Burnham said he was "deeply grateful" to Labour MPs who had nominated him, adding that the backing reflected support from across the party.
He said the nominations showed a "shared belief that Britain needs a new approach to politics" and described his agenda as a "circuit breaker" that would shift power away from Westminster, reshape the economy to benefit ordinary people and promote growth across the country.
Later on Thursday, Burnham briefly turned to politics while presenting the Legend Award to Manchester indie band James at the Silver Clef music awards at London's Royal Albert Hall.
Although he said he would avoid discussing politics during the event, he joked about Reform UK leader Nigel Farage's decision to trigger a by-election in Clacton, where Count Binface is standing after Labour and the other major parties chose not to contest the seat.
"Count Binface, you are carrying the hopes of the nation. Don't let us down," Burnham said.
Leadership Race Appears All but Decided
Burnham's return to Parliament, combined with Labour's heavy losses in May's local elections, intensified pressure on Sir Keir Starmer to step aside. Sir Keir resigned as Labour leader on the day Burnham was sworn in as an MP, saying he had concluded he was no longer the best person to lead Labour into the next general election.
Candidates have until Wednesday to secure nominations from at least 81 Labour MPs to qualify for the leadership contest. Once Burnham reaches 323 MP nominations, no other candidate will be able to reach that threshold.
He must also receive nominations from at least three of Labour's 31 affiliated trade unions or socialist societies, a requirement expected to be completed without difficulty.
If he remains unopposed, Burnham will become Labour leader and prime minister without a vote among party members or affiliated trade union supporters.
Attention Turns to Policy Agenda
Support for Burnham gathered momentum after former defence minister Al Carns ruled out entering the contest on Wednesday, effectively clearing the path for an uncontested leadership race.
Even so, some Labour figures have called on Burnham to provide more detail about the policies he would pursue in government, particularly as he spent the past eight years outside Westminster after leaving Parliament in 2017.
His limited contact with many newer Labour MPs has increased interest in an official parliamentary hustings scheduled for Monday, where he is expected to answer questions about his plans.
Meanwhile, Burnham has begun "access talks" with senior civil servants, led by Cabinet Secretary Antonia Romeo, to discuss policy proposals ahead of a potential transition into government.
Speaking as nominations opened, Sir Keir endorsed his longtime colleague, saying he had worked closely with Burnham after first entering Parliament and believed he would make "a good prime minister."

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10 July 2026

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Rogan Says Trump ‘Might’ve F---ed It Up’ With Iran War

Podcaster Joe Rogan has questioned President Donald Trump's decision to resume military strikes on Iran, saying the president "might’ve f---ed it up" by becoming involved in the conflict.

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Speaking on Wednesday's episode of The Joe Rogan Experience, Rogan argued that many conservatives never wanted a war with Iran and said the military action appeared to contradict one of Trump's key campaign promises.
He continued: "They’re the only people that seem to be thinking it’s a good idea in this country. Most people are horrified by the idea because Trump was elected. One of the pillars that he stood for apparently was that he doesn’t want any more wars."
Conservative Criticism Intensifies
Rogan's remarks echo criticism from several prominent conservative commentators, including Tucker Carlson, Megyn Kelly and Matt Walsh.
The group has argued that Trump entered the conflict to advance Israeli interests without fully considering the consequences for Americans, who have faced fluctuating fuel and energy prices since the fighting began.
Growing Opposition on the Right
British politician Rupert Lowe, who appeared as Rogan's guest on the podcast, said Iran remained a regional threat but questioned whether military action served U.S. interests.
"There’s only a reason to go to war if it’s going to benefit you," Lowe said. Although he described Iran as "a sort of malevolent state" that spreads harmful ideology, he said it was difficult to identify a clear benefit for the United States.
Lowe also pointed to Iran's backing of Hezbollah in Lebanon and Hamas as evidence that Tehran continues to pose a security challenge.
Fighting Continues
The comments came as efforts to secure a diplomatic breakthrough appeared to falter.
While Trump's team had been working to negotiate an agreement, fighting between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon threatened hopes for a broader peace deal. Israel has maintained control of a security zone along its border with Lebanon, saying the buffer is needed to prevent Hezbollah operations.
Iran has said regional peace was secured under the ceasefire agreement and urged Trump to adhere to the terms outlined in the memorandum of understanding.
However, after Iran attacked three ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz on Tuesday and clashes between U.S. and Iranian forces continued on Wednesday, Trump declared that the ceasefire agreement was "over."
Next Moves Awaited
International leaders are now watching closely for Washington's next military decisions as they assess whether the conflict with Iran will escalate further or move back toward diplomacy following the latest exchanges of strikes.

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10 July 2026
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Farage Faces Count Binface as Rivals Boycott Vote

Nigel Farage's decision to resign as the member of parliament for Clacton and force a by-election has drawn sharp criticism, with Britain's main political parties refusing to contest the vote and leaving him facing a satirical challenger instead.

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Farage, leader of Reform UK, stepped down on Tuesday while facing allegations that he failed to declare millions of pounds' worth of gifts from wealthy donors. He has denied any wrongdoing and is under investigation by Parliament's standards watchdog.
Announcing his resignation, Farage said he wanted voters in Clacton, in southeast England, to decide his political future rather than what he described as an "establishment" campaign against him.
"I've decided the people of Clacton should be the judges of my actions," he said, adding that he intended to continue the "political revolution" led by Reform UK.
Major Parties Boycott Contest
Farage's strategy quickly met resistance from Britain's three main political parties. Labour, the Conservatives and the Liberal Democrats all announced they would boycott the by-election, arguing that the contest was an unnecessary political stunt.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the move as a "desperate stunt," while a spokesperson for Andy Burnham, widely viewed as a potential future prime minister, called it a "gimmick" intended to divert attention from questions surrounding Farage's financial backers.
Rachel Reeves, the finance minister who formally accepted Farage's resignation from Parliament, also criticized the move. Writing on X, she said the people of Clacton deserved better and remarked that if Farage wanted to spend the summer "arguing with a bin," she would not stop him.
Count Binface Emerges as Main Challenger
With the major parties opting out, the most recognizable candidate to enter the race is Count Binface, a satirical character created by comedian and writer Jon Harvey.
Known for wearing a metallic bin on his head, Count Binface has regularly contested British elections as part of the country's long tradition of novelty candidates challenging high-profile politicians. His campaign often combines political satire with deliberately humorous policy proposals.
Following Farage's resignation, Count Binface declared "Game on, Nige" in a post on X.
The comedian later told BBC Radio 4's Today programme that he wondered whether politicians were avoiding the contest because they feared him rather than Farage. Asked why voters should support him, he replied simply: "I'm not Nigel Farage."
Supporters Defend Farage's Decision
Farage's allies argued that the boycott showed Britain's established parties were unwilling to challenge the Reform UK leader directly.
Reform UK's home affairs spokesman, Zia Yusuf, accused the other parties of avoiding the contest despite years of attacking Farage politically.
"The establishment is on the ropes," Yusuf wrote on X.
Although Count Binface is not expected to win the seat, some political commentators have suggested he could attract a notable protest vote as dissatisfaction with the by-election and the surrounding controversy continues to dominate attention.


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10 July 2026
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Putin Set to Intensify Ukraine War Despite Peace Efforts

Russian President Vladimir Putin is unlikely to pursue peace talks with Ukraine in the near future and is instead expected to intensify the war, according to three sources close to the Kremlin who spoke to Reuters.

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The sources said recent Ukrainian drone strikes on Russian oil refineries, ports and fuel infrastructure have reinforced Putin's determination to continue the conflict rather than negotiate. Two of the sources, who requested anonymity, said an escalation in military operations is likely in the coming months. One person who regularly meets with the Russian leader described the chances of escalation as "high."
Kremlin Sources See Little Prospect of Peace
The assessment contrasts with comments made this week by U.S. President Donald Trump, who said Putin wanted the war to end and suggested a resolution was "closer than people realize." Trump held separate phone calls with Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy last week before meeting Zelenskyy during the NATO summit, where the two leaders discussed possible steps toward peace. The White House did not respond to Reuters' request for comment.
Putin Focused on Donbas Objectives
According to one source familiar with Putin's thinking, the Russian president remains committed to capturing the remainder of Ukraine's eastern Donbas region. The source said Putin recently rejected advice from some advisers who proposed accepting a ceasefire along the current front lines, insisting instead on achieving his military objectives.
Another source said Putin believes Russian forces will eventually secure the remaining Ukrainian-held areas of Donbas.
The Kremlin maintained its public position that Russia remains open to a peaceful settlement while continuing military operations. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Moscow had sufficient capability to continue what it calls its "special military operation."
A senior Ukrainian official, responding on behalf of Zelenskyy's office, said Ukrainian intelligence indicates Russia is preparing for additional military action rather than negotiations, including possible new operations inside Ukraine or even against another European country.
Growing Concerns Over Wider Escalation
Some Western military analysts believe Russia would need a politically unpopular mobilisation of additional fighting-age men to fully capture Donbas, a step Putin has so far avoided.
Russian military commentators have increasingly discussed the possibility of expanding the conflict, including strikes against European targets such as NATO bases in the Baltic states. Such attacks could risk direct confrontation with the U.S.-led alliance.
Jack Watling of the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) said Russia might instead seek limited attacks designed to create divisions within NATO over how to respond. He added that rising tensions with the alliance could also provide domestic justification for wider military conscription.
War Continues to Take Heavy Toll
Repeated Ukrainian strikes on Russian energy infrastructure have caused fuel shortages, increasing the war's impact on the Russian public. Although Putin's approval rating remains high, polling has shown it recently reached its lowest level since the full-scale invasion began in 2022.
The source who regularly meets Putin said Ukraine's recent battlefield successes have made the Russian leader more determined to respond forcefully. Russia has launched major drone and missile attacks on Ukraine in recent days, including strikes on Kyiv that killed dozens of civilians. Moscow says it targeted military facilities.
Speaking to senior military officers last week, Putin said Ukrainian attacks on Russian infrastructure justified creating a broader "security zone" by capturing additional territory along the border beyond Donbas.
Former Russian defence ministry official Andrei Ilnitsky recently wrote that a future escalation could include attacks on major industrial sites in Ukraine and, later, strikes against NATO bases and European facilities supporting Ukraine's defence industry. Asked about those remarks, Kremlin spokesman Peskov said Russia must strengthen its security in response to what he described as Europe's militarisation.
Grinding Offensive in Eastern Ukraine
Russia's advance across the roughly 1,200-kilometre front line has slowed as Ukrainian drone warfare has reduced Moscow's numerical advantage. Fighting has intensified around Kostiantynivka, a key defensive city in Ukraine's Donetsk region.
On July 3, Putin claimed Russian forces had captured Kostiantynivka, a statement Ukraine denied. During a subsequent phone call with Trump, Putin reportedly expressed confidence that Russia would eventually seize the remaining Ukrainian-held part of the Donetsk region.
According to the source who regularly meets Putin, the Russian president views control of Donbas as a matter of principle and believes he needs a significant military victory.

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10 July 2026
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Trump Says 'Islamic Republic of Japan' Fired Missiles

President Donald Trump mistakenly referred to the "Islamic Republic of Japan" while describing an alleged missile attack on a U.S. aircraft carrier during remarks to reporters alongside Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on July 8 at the NATO summit in Ankara, Turkey.

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Speaking about the USS Abraham Lincoln, Trump said: "We have an aircraft carrier which is one of the most beautiful in the world, it's one of the biggest, the (USS) Abraham Lincoln. And a few months ago, we had, I told this story yesterday, we had 111 missiles shot by the Islamic Republic of Japan."
He went on to claim the missiles were fired at the aircraft carrier over the course of an hour and that every one of them was intercepted.
USS Abraham Lincoln and Iran
The USS Abraham Lincoln has been involved in heightened tensions with Iran in recent months.
In February, the U.S. military said it shot down a drone that approached the aircraft carrier aggressively while it was operating in the Arabian Sea, about 500 miles off Iran's southern coast.
The following month, Iran claimed it had struck the USS Abraham Lincoln with a ballistic missile. U.S. Central Command rejected the claim, stating that the carrier was not hit and that the missiles "didn't even come close." The military said the vessel continued launching aircraft in support of operations aimed at countering threats from Iran.
Longstanding US-Japan Alliance
Trump's reference appeared to confuse Iran with Japan.
The United States and Japan have maintained a close military alliance for nearly 75 years. The two countries signed a security treaty in 1952, several years after the end of World War II, and continue to cooperate under a mutual defense agreement.
Around 60,000 U.S. military personnel are currently stationed in Japan as part of the alliance.


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9 July 2026
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Bonnie Tyler, 'Total Eclipse of the Heart' Singer, Dies at 75

Welsh singer Bonnie Tyler, whose powerful vocals helped make Total Eclipse of the Heart one of the defining hits of the 1980s, has died at the age of 75.

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A statement published on her official website said Tyler died unexpectedly on Wednesday night in a hospital in Portugal after being treated for an illness.
Death Confirmed by Family
Born Gaynor Hopkins in south Wales, Tyler rose to international fame with a string of chart successes during the 1970s and 1980s. Her signature hit, Total Eclipse of the Heart, became a worldwide bestseller and surpassed one billion streams on Spotify earlier this year.
Career Defined by Global Hits
Despite its enduring popularity, Tyler previously said she earned very little from the song because it was written by someone else.
Her stage name was chosen after she browsed a newspaper, selecting first and last names that appealed to her before launching her recording career.
Health Struggles
Tyler had been seriously ill in recent months. In May, she underwent emergency intestinal surgery in Portugal and was placed in an induced coma. Her spokesperson said last month that she had emerged from the coma but remained in intensive care and was still critically unwell.
Tributes Pour In
Tributes have begun pouring in following news of her death. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer described Tyler as one of Britain's greatest recording artists.
A Downing Street spokesperson said the prime minister was saddened by the loss of "an iconic figure" whose music, including Total Eclipse of the Heart and Holding Out for a Hero, continues to resonate with audiences, fill dance floors and remain karaoke favourites.
"The prime minister's thoughts are very much with her friends and family," the spokesperson added.


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9 July 2026
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UK Judges Hear Appeal Over Trinidad Anti-Gay Law

The UK's highest appeal judges have begun hearing a case that could determine whether Trinidad and Tobago's colonial-era law criminalising consensual same-sex intimacy should remain in force.

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The appeal centres on whether Trinidad and Tobago's Court of Appeal had the legal authority to overturn a 2018 High Court ruling that declared the country's anti-gay law unconstitutional.
The so-called "buggery law", first introduced in 1925 and incorporated into Trinidad and Tobago's 1986 Sexual Offences Act, criminalises anal sex between consenting men and carries a prison sentence of up to five years.
Challenge to Colonial-Era Law
In 2017, LGBTQ+ rights activist Jason Jones challenged the legislation, arguing that it violated his constitutional rights to privacy and equality. A High Court agreed in 2018, striking down the law as unconstitutional.
However, the country's Court of Appeal reversed that decision in 2025 after intervention by the attorney general, restoring the legislation. Jones has now appealed to the London-based Judicial Committee of the Privy Council (JCPC), which serves as the final court of appeal for several Commonwealth countries, British Overseas Territories and Crown Dependencies.
A ruling is expected within three to six months.
Wider Constitutional Questions
The case is being closely monitored across the Caribbean because its outcome could extend beyond LGBTQ+ rights.
Trinidad and Tobago's government is contesting Jones's appeal, arguing that the case could affect the interpretation of constitutional "savings clauses". These provisions preserved many laws inherited from British colonial rule after countries gained independence.
Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar said the Privy Council's decision could provide guidance on whether other colonial-era laws protected by savings clauses should remain in force.
Darrell Allahar, a minister in the Office of the Prime Minister and one of the government's lawyers, said the proceedings were important because they concerned the broader constitutional role of savings clauses, which were designed to preserve existing laws following independence rather than allow widespread legal changes based on new constitutional rights.
Activist Criticises Government
Jones, 61, said the matter should never have reached the Privy Council, arguing that the government or parliament could have repealed the legislation years ago.
He accused the state of spending millions of dollars in public funds defending laws that, he said, criminalise and stigmatise LGBTQ+ people. Jones expressed confidence that the Privy Council would rule in his favour, arguing that the legislation is incompatible with modern human rights protections.
Regional Significance
Several Caribbean countries have recently repealed or struck down similar colonial-era laws. The Bahamas decriminalised homosexuality in 1991, while courts have more recently invalidated comparable legislation in Barbados, Dominica, St Lucia, and Antigua and Barbuda. The UK also repealed such laws in several British Overseas Territories in 2001.
However, consensual same-sex intimacy remains criminalised in Guyana, Grenada, Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, and St Vincent and the Grenadines.
Former Irish prime minister Leo Varadkar said the remaining countries in the Americas that still criminalise homosexuality all share a history as former British colonies. Writing in a recent paper for Harvard University, he argued that this reflected the continued existence of colonial-era laws that have already been repealed in the United Kingdom, where rights including privacy and personal autonomy are protected under domestic law.



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9 July 2026
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Trump's Triumphal Arch Faces Further Review

President Donald Trump's proposal to build a 250-foot (76-meter) triumphal arch in Washington, D.C., is set for another review on Thursday as the federal agency responsible for approving construction on federal land considers the project.

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The National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC) will discuss the proposal during its meeting, with the arch among the items on its agenda.
Agency staff have recommended that commissioners grant preliminary approval for the site and building plans. However, they also advise requiring design changes before the project can receive final approval.
Planning Commission to Consider Revised Design
According to a 185-page staff report, the proposed design should be revised to comply with the federal Height of Buildings Act, which limits building heights in downtown Washington to protect the city's skyline.
The report recommends that the commission ask the applicant to revise the design and return for final approval. It says the required changes would involve redistributing the height of the main structure, the habitable roof section and the three gilded statues planned for the top of the arch.
Height Rules and Design Changes
Despite those revisions, the overall structure, including the public observation deck and statues, would still reach Trump's proposed height of 250 feet, the report said.
Staff also recommended that commissioners seek additional information on vehicle traffic around the site, the proposed granite exterior and other aspects of the project before the Interior Department, which oversees the National Park Service, submits the proposal for final approval.
Trump plans to build the monument on a traffic circle at the Virginia end of Memorial Bridge, opposite the District of Columbia.
Opposition and Legal Challenge
The proposal has already received approval from the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts, which signed off on the design in May. The NCPC began its review in June.
Critics argue the arch would dominate Washington's skyline and disrupt the historic sightline between the Lincoln Memorial and Arlington National Cemetery, a view designed to symbolize national reunification after the Civil War.
However, opposition has had little impact on the two federal commissions reviewing the project. Both include members closely aligned with Trump, who appointed senior White House aide Will Scharf to chair the planning commission.
A group of veterans and a historian have filed a federal lawsuit seeking to block construction, arguing the project would damage the historic vista.
Funding Questions Remain
The proposed arch would stand more than twice the height of the 99-foot (30-meter) Lincoln Memorial and nearly half the height of the 555-foot (169-meter) Washington Monument.
Trump previously said the project could be financed using unused funds from hundreds of millions of dollars he said had been raised from corporate and private donors for a new $400 million White House ballroom.
However, public funds are now expected to contribute to both the ballroom and the arch project. The White House has not released an estimated cost for the monument.



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9 July 2026
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Judge Orders Trump to Pay E. Jean Carroll $5 Million

A federal judge in New York has ordered President Donald Trump to pay the $5 million judgment awarded to writer E. Jean Carroll after a jury found him liable for sexually abusing and defaming her.

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The order was issued on Wednesday while Trump attended the NATO summit in Ankara. Judge Lewis Kaplan directed that the $5 million judgment, along with nearly $800,000 in accrued interest, be paid to Carroll.
Appeals Exhausted
In his ruling, Kaplan said Trump had delayed the case for years despite repeated court defeats.
Jury Verdict and Supreme Court Decision
A New York jury in 2023 found Trump liable for sexually abusing Carroll in a dressing room at Bergdorf Goodman in the mid-1990s and for defaming her in 2022 after he denied her allegations. The jury awarded Carroll $5 million in damages.
Last month, the U.S. Supreme Court declined to hear Trump's appeal of that verdict without any recorded dissents, leaving the judgment in place.
Trump's lawyers filed a notice on Wednesday stating they intend to appeal Kaplan's latest order.
Appeals Court Rejects Delay Request
Trump's legal team also sought an administrative stay from the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit in an effort to delay payment. However, the appeals court rejected the request in a one-page order on Wednesday, allowing the funds to be released to Carroll.
The Second Circuit had previously rejected Trump's attempts to overturn the verdict before the Supreme Court declined to review the case.
Three years ago, Trump deposited approximately $5.55 million into the federal Court Registry Investment System, where the funds were held while his appeal proceeded.
Kaplan has now ordered the court clerk to transfer the money to an account belonging to Carroll's lawyers. Court records do not yet indicate whether the transfer has been completed.
Separate $83 Million Judgment Still Under Appeal
Following the Supreme Court's decision, Carroll's attorneys asked the court to release the funds, arguing that after years of litigation there was no reason for further delay, despite indications that Trump might seek reconsideration from the Supreme Court.
"[A]fter four years of litigation across every level of the federal court system, it is time for this case to end," Carroll's attorney, Roberta Kaplan, wrote in a court filing.
Trump responded to the Supreme Court's decision in a post on his social media platform, saying he would continue challenging the case.
"I will continue the fight against this Weaponization and Lawfare Case against me, including the ridiculous claim of Defamation, with all of my power and strength," he wrote.
A separate jury has also ordered Trump to pay Carroll an additional $83 million in damages in a related defamation case. That judgment remains under appeal.

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9 July 2026
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Trump Backs Ukraine Air Defenses After Zelensky Talks

President Donald Trump signaled a significant shift in U.S.-Ukraine relations on Wednesday after meeting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on the sidelines of the NATO summit in Turkey, announcing new defense cooperation as Kyiv seeks to strengthen its position in the war with Russia.

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Trump said the United States would purchase Ukrainian-made drones and approved plans for Ukraine to co-produce Patriot missile interceptors under a U.S. license. The move, if implemented, could bolster Ukraine's long-term air defense capabilities against continued Russian missile attacks.
New Support Announced at NATO Summit
The announcement marks a notable change in Trump's approach to Ukraine. Throughout the Biden administration, he frequently criticized U.S. military aid to Kyiv and publicly urged Zelensky to consider territorial concessions as part of a negotiated settlement with Russia.
Speaking to reporters alongside Zelensky, Trump said relations between the two leaders had improved considerably since their widely publicized Oval Office confrontation in February 2025.
"We've actually developed a good relationship," Trump said. "From the Oval Office to now, I think we've developed a very good relationship."
Relations Improve After Earlier Tensions
Asked whether the United States would transfer additional Patriot interceptors directly to Ukraine, Trump said U.S. stockpiles had been reduced following military operations against Iran.
Instead, he said Washington would authorize Ukraine to manufacture the interceptor missiles under license.
"We're going to give a license to you to make Patriots," Trump told Zelensky, adding that he still needed to notify the manufacturer but expected the arrangement to proceed.
Lockheed Martin, which produces Patriot interceptors, already faces a substantial backlog of international orders, with production priorities determined by the Pentagon. It remains unclear how quickly Ukraine could establish domestic production facilities.
Ukraine Seeks Stronger Defenses
For several years, Zelensky has urged Western partners to allow Ukraine to co-produce Patriot systems, which play a critical role in defending against Russian ballistic missile attacks.
Russia has intensified missile and drone strikes on Ukraine following successful Ukrainian operations targeting military facilities and energy infrastructure inside Russian territory.
Trump appeared to endorse Ukraine's strategy of carrying out strikes beyond its borders, describing it as an escalation that could ultimately help bring the conflict to an end.
"It's an escalation, but it's also an escalation that could help lead to an end," he said.
Support Welcomed by Ukraine and U.S. Lawmakers
The announcements were welcomed by Ukrainian officials and some U.S. lawmakers attending the NATO summit.
Luke Coffey, a senior fellow at the Hudson Institute, said many had expected Ukraine to receive limited attention because of divisions within the alliance, but noted that several concrete decisions were announced that could influence the battlefield.
Ukraine's ambassador to the United States, Olga Stefanishyna, said expanding cooperation on Patriot missile capabilities reflected a shared commitment to protecting Ukrainian civilians and infrastructure. She added that Ukraine had demonstrated its ability to develop advanced defense technologies and that closer industrial cooperation would strengthen broader transatlantic security.
The proposals also received bipartisan backing in Washington. Senator Jeanne Shaheen urged Trump to finalize plans to purchase Ukrainian drones.
Shaheen joined a bipartisan congressional delegation at the NATO summit that also included Senators Dick Durbin, Mike Rounds, Lindsey Graham, Chris Coons, and Representative Mike Turner. After meeting Zelensky, the group said Russian President Vladimir Putin faced growing domestic pressure from attacks on energy infrastructure, international sanctions and the economic strain of the war.
Trump, who last spoke with Putin by telephone on July 4, said he still believed the Russian leader wanted to negotiate an end to the conflict and expected to speak with him again.
"We have a lot of pressure on President Putin," Trump said. "I don't think he likes what's going on. There's a lot of pressure on President Putin to get it done."


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9 July 2026
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Trump Returns to US on Old Air Force One From Turkey

President Donald Trump said he will return to the United States aboard the older Air Force One after attending the NATO summit in Turkey, while the newly acquired aircraft donated by Qatar will travel separately through Europe.

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New Aircraft to Visit Military Bases
Speaking at a news conference in Ankara on Wednesday, Trump dismissed questions about whether the decision was linked to security concerns surrounding the new aircraft. He instead said the plane would visit military bases so U.S. service members could tour it.
Trump also repeated that he believes he is Iran's primary assassination target.
He briefly joked that he would rather be “No. 1 on TikTok” before adding that he was “No. 1 on the list for killing.”
Trump Explains Travel Plans
When asked why he was not flying home on the new aircraft, Trump said it would stop at military bases in Europe.
“And we’ll be going home by normal methods,” he said. “But we have it going to Europe to a couple of bases... so the soldiers can see it because it’s truly magnificent.”
Earlier on Wednesday, Trump announced on Truth Social that the aircraft would be flown to Royal Air Force Mildenhall in the United Kingdom, where military personnel would have an opportunity to tour it.
He wrote that the visit was intended “to honor our brave men and women of the Military,” adding that they should be the first to see the new addition to the Air Force fleet.
Trump said he would instead fly aboard the previous Air Force One from Turkey to Mildenhall “for old time's sake” before continuing his journey home.
Iran Comments Repeated
During his remarks, Trump again referred to threats from Iran, saying he believed he remained the country's top target.
“They had leaders; they're gone, and they had another set of leaders; they're gone,” he said. “Now they have another set of leaders, they may be gone, who knows, and you know what, I may be gone too, because I'm their No. 1 target.”
Interim Aircraft Until Boeing Delivery
Trump unveiled the retrofitted Qatari aircraft last month. The plane is expected to serve as an interim presidential aircraft until two delayed Boeing replacements enter service. Those aircraft were originally expected in 2024 but are now scheduled for delivery in 2028.
The U.S. Air Force has said it spent less than $400 million upgrading the aircraft's security systems.
Last week, the Associated Press reported that the aircraft appears to lack some of the missile detection and countermeasure systems installed on the current Air Force One fleet. One aviation expert told the news agency the plane appeared better suited for domestic travel than international missions.
The aircraft completed a domestic trip to North Dakota last week before carrying Trump to Turkey.


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9 July 2026
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Appeals Court Refuses to Restore Trump's Kennedy Center Name

A U.S. appeals court has rejected President Donald Trump's request to halt a lower court order requiring his name to be removed from the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, after judges found no evidence that the decision would cause irreparable harm.

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A three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit issued an unsigned order on Wednesday denying the request from Trump and fellow members of the center's board. The court noted that Trump's name had already been removed from the building's facade.
The judges said the board had "failed to show how they will be irreparably injured absent a stay," rejecting its argument that removing Trump's name could damage fundraising efforts and contribute to the center's financial decline.
The panel, which included Trump appointee Gregory Katsas, also said the board had not provided any specific facts or evidence to support its claims about potential financial harm.
Lower Court Decision
The ruling leaves in place a May decision by U.S. District Judge Christopher Cooper, who found that the Trump-controlled board acted unlawfully when it voted in December to rename the venue the "Trump-Kennedy Center."
Judge Cooper also invalidated the board's decision to close the performing arts center for renovations beginning this month.
Reaction and Next Steps
Following the appeals court's decision, Joyce Beatty welcomed the ruling, saying it reaffirmed that the administration's efforts to rename the Kennedy Center were unlawful and urged the administration to accept the outcome.
Judge Cooper has instructed the Kennedy Center's leadership to provide an update on any programming or renovation plans that emerge from a board meeting expected to take place in mid-July.


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9 July 2026

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Trump Threatens More Iran Strikes After Ceasefire 'Is Over'

US President Donald Trump has declared that the ceasefire agreement with Iran is effectively over, warning of further American military action after renewed exchanges of fire between the two countries.

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Speaking at a NATO summit in Turkey on Wednesday, Trump said the US had struck Iranian targets overnight and suggested additional attacks could follow.
"We hit them very hard last night," he told reporters. "We'll probably hit them hard again tonight."
US President Signals Further Military Action as Tensions Rise
The comments came after the heaviest fighting since Washington and Tehran signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on 17 June, aimed at halting hostilities and creating a framework for further negotiations.
The agreement included a 60-day ceasefire, commitments to protect commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, continued diplomatic talks, and a temporary easing of US sanctions on Iranian oil exports.
Trump Dismisses Future Talks
Trump accused Iran of violating the agreement, claiming its leaders had acted dishonestly throughout the negotiations.
Speaking at the summit, he described Iran's leadership as "scum" and "cuckoo", saying he no longer wished to negotiate with Tehran.
"I think it's over," Trump said. "We make a deal. They go outside, talk to the press, and say, 'We never even talked about it.' There's something wrong with them."
Earlier in the day, he said US negotiators could continue discussions "if they want", but dismissed further diplomacy as "a waste of time". Later, however, he added that he did not expect the conflict to develop into a prolonged war and believed any future fighting would end quickly.
Iran Promises Response
Iranian officials strongly criticised Trump's remarks and warned against further US military action.
Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi wrote on X that Iran would respond through action rather than rhetoric.
"We do not answer vulgarity with vulgarity, but with action: fearlessly and with great valour," he said.
Ali Akbar Velayati, a senior adviser to Iran's supreme leader, warned that any new American strikes would receive an "immediate response".
Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi said Trump's comments reflected the failure of years of sanctions, threats and military pressure to force Iran into submission.
Parliamentary Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf accused Washington of violating the June agreement through renewed strikes and by restoring sanctions on Iranian oil exports.
"The era of bullying and extortion is over. It leads nowhere. We don't fold," he said.
Military Escalation Continues
US Central Command said it carried out "powerful" strikes on Tuesday after attacks on three commercial tankers in the Strait of Hormuz.
Iranian state media reported that eight members of the country's armed forces were killed in strikes on Bandar Abbas and Bushehr.
In response, Iran said it launched attacks on US military sites in Bahrain and Kuwait on Wednesday.
The US also reinstated sanctions relief that had temporarily been suspended under the June agreement.
Meanwhile, Central Command said more than 20 US Navy warships remain deployed across the Middle East as tensions continue.
Oil prices rose following Trump's comments, although they remain below the peaks reached when the Strait of Hormuz was fully closed during the earlier stages of the conflict.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte described the latest US strikes as "absolutely necessary", saying Iran had violated the ceasefire.
The latest escalation has cast further doubt on the future of negotiations. Talks had already been paused during funeral ceremonies for Iran's late Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed during the opening phase of the US-Israeli campaign against Iran.
Asked whether diplomacy would resume, Trump said he was unconcerned.
"I don't care," he said, adding that while negotiators including Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner could continue discussions if they wished, he believed doing so would be "just a waste of time."


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9 July 2026

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German Doctor Jailed for Murder of 15 Patients

A German palliative care doctor has been sentenced to life imprisonment after being convicted of murdering 15 of his patients over nearly three years.

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A court in Berlin found the 41-year-old doctor, identified only as Johannes M. under German privacy laws, guilty of killing 12 women and three men between September 2021 and July 2024.
Victims Killed During Home Visits
The victims ranged in age from 25 to 94. Although they were all seriously ill, the court heard that none were believed to be close to death at the time they were killed.
Prosecutors said the doctor administered a fatal combination of medications to patients during home visits without their knowledge or consent.
Fires Allegedly Used to Conceal Crimes
The court also heard that the doctor allegedly set fires on several occasions in an attempt to destroy evidence and conceal the killings.
According to prosecutors, shortly before his arrest in July 2024, he killed two patients on the same day. A 75-year-old man died at his home in central Berlin, followed a few hours later by a 76-year-old woman in a neighbouring district.
Prosecutors said the doctor attempted to set fire to the woman's home but was unsuccessful.
Confession During Trial
For much of the year-long trial, the doctor remained silent. However, last month he admitted to killing 12 of his severely ill patients.
He told the court that he had persuaded himself he was acting in their best interests by ending what he described as their suffering and infirmity.
The doctor apologised for the pain he had caused and said he intended to cooperate more fully in future legal proceedings.
Dozens More Cases Under Investigation
Authorities believe the 15 confirmed murders may represent only part of the doctor's alleged crimes.
Prosecutors are investigating 76 additional cases involving former patients. German media have reported that, if further charges are proven and result in convictions, the case could become one of the largest serial murder cases in Germany's history.
During the trial, relatives of several victims described their shock and grief.
The mother of the youngest victim, a 25-year-old woman who died in 2021, told the court her daughter had never expressed a wish to die.
The son of a 72-year-old woman who died in 2024 said his mother had been planning a trip to the Baltic Sea with her sister and wanted to continue living.
The court ruled that the doctor's guilt was particularly severe, making early release highly unlikely. In addition to the life sentence, judges ordered preventive detention after the prison term if necessary and imposed a lifetime ban on practising medicine.

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8 July 2026
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Ruth Ellis, Last Woman Executed in the UK, Pardoned

The UK government has granted a conditional posthumous pardon to Ruth Ellis, the last woman to be executed in Britain, more than 70 years after she was hanged for the murder of her lover.

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Justice Secretary David Lammy announced the decision, saying the pardon recognises a "profound injustice" in what he described as an exceptional case.
Pardon Recognises Injustice
Ellis was executed in 1955 after being convicted of murdering her lover, David Blakely. She was the last woman to be hanged in the UK before capital punishment was later abolished.
Announcing the decision, Lammy said the conditional pardon does not declare Ellis innocent of the crime.
"While the pardon does not claim she was innocent, it replaces the death penalty with a sentence of life imprisonment to recognise a profound injustice in this exceptional case," he said.
The conditional pardon acknowledges that, under modern legal standards, Ellis would not have faced the death penalty.
Family Welcomes Decision
Ellis, who was from Rhyl in north Wales, has long been viewed by campaigners and historians as a victim of domestic abuse.
Her family welcomed the government's decision, describing it as long-overdue recognition of the circumstances surrounding her case.
In a statement, Ellis' granddaughter, Laura Enston, said: "Justice has finally been done."
She added, however, that the pardon "does not restore the lives that were broken."
Announcement Made in Parliament
The announcement came at the conclusion of Deputy Prime Minister's Questions in the House of Commons, where discussion had focused largely on early prisoner release schemes.
Ellis' case has remained one of the most widely debated in British legal history, with supporters arguing for decades that her execution failed to take account of the abuse she suffered before the killing.

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8 July 2026
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