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Supreme Court Hands Trump Big Win but Three Setbacks

USA

Supreme Court Hands Trump Big Win but Three Setbacks

Donald Trump secured a significant victory at the US Supreme Court on Monday after the justices expanded presidential authority over independent federal regulators. However, the court also handed the president three notable defeats, underscoring that its conservative majority is not always aligned with his agenda.

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The rulings, issued on the second-to-last day of the court's current term, covered presidential powers, election rules, the Federal Reserve and one of Trump's long-running legal battles.
Court Expands Presidential Authority
In its most consequential decision, the Supreme Court overturned a nearly century-old precedent that had limited a president's ability to remove officials serving on independent regulatory agencies.
Writing for the six-member conservative majority, Chief Justice John Roberts said officials exercising executive authority must remain accountable to the president and, ultimately, to voters through the elected executive.
The decision reverses a landmark ruling dating back to the administration of President Franklin D. Roosevelt and gives Trump, as well as future presidents, broader authority to dismiss and replace officials leading agencies that Congress had intended to operate independently.
Although the case centred on the Federal Trade Commission, the ruling is expected to affect numerous agencies responsible for elections, communications, labour, finance and environmental regulation.
Trump welcomed the decision on his Truth Social platform, saying it had "greatly" increased presidential power.
Federal Reserve Ruling Limits Trump's Reach
Despite the sweeping ruling on executive authority, the court refused to extend that reasoning to Trump's effort to remove Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook.
In a 5-4 decision, Roberts and conservative Justice Brett Kavanaugh joined the court's three liberal justices in allowing Cook to challenge her dismissal.
Trump has accused Cook of mortgage fraud, although the dispute has also unfolded against the backdrop of his criticism of the Federal Reserve's refusal to lower interest rates.
Roberts wrote that Cook should have the opportunity to contest the allegations against her, while warning of the serious consequences that could arise if presidents were able to exert direct control over the central bank.
The decision represented a significant setback for Trump, whose administration has repeatedly criticised the Federal Reserve's monetary policy.
Court Rejects Trump on Mail-In Ballots
Trump also lost a separate case involving mail-in voting.
In another 5-4 ruling, the Supreme Court upheld the authority of states to count mail-in ballots that are postmarked by Election Day but arrive afterwards, rejecting Trump's challenge.
Justice Amy Coney Barrett, joined by Roberts and the court's three liberal justices, wrote that the US Constitution gives states broad authority to determine the "time, place and manner" of congressional elections.
The majority also dismissed Trump's arguments that mail-in voting is particularly vulnerable to fraud, indicating that such policy questions should be addressed through the political process rather than the courts.
Following the ruling, Trump renewed his call for Congress to pass legislation restricting mail-in voting. Although the Republican-controlled House has approved the measure, it has not advanced in the Senate.
Appeal in Carroll Defamation Case Rejected
The Supreme Court also quietly declined to hear Trump's appeal of the $5 million civil judgment awarded to writer E. Jean Carroll after a jury found he had defamed her.
The justices provided no explanation for declining the case, leaving intact the 2023 verdict.
Trump criticised the decision on social media and vowed to continue challenging what he described as "lawfare" against him.
The ruling effectively ends Trump's effort to overturn the $5 million judgment, although he is continuing to appeal a separate case in which a jury awarded Carroll $83.3 million in damages.
Monday's decisions highlighted the complex relationship between Trump and a Supreme Court with a conservative majority. While the court significantly strengthened presidential authority over independent agencies, it also blocked the president on key priorities involving the Federal Reserve, mail-in voting and one of his most prominent legal appeals.


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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 30 June 2026

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June 29Jun 29

Five Killed in Shooting at Germany Youth Centre

Mass Shooting

Five Killed in Shooting at Germany Youth Centre

Five people were killed in a shooting at a youth centre in the northern German town of Stade on Monday, police said, adding that a male suspect had been detained.

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The motive for the attack remains unclear as investigators continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
Shooting at Youth Centre
Local media reported that the incident occurred at a youth centre in central Stade, a town of just under 50,000 residents located west of Hamburg.
Police confirmed that one male suspect was in custody but did not immediately provide further details about his identity or possible connection to the victims.
Investigation Underway
Some local media reports suggested that more than one person may have been involved in the shooting. However, police did not confirm those reports and said investigations were ongoing.
Emergency services responded to the scene as officers secured the area and launched an investigation. Authorities have not yet released information about the victims or said whether they believe there is any ongoing threat to the public.
Police said they would provide further updates as more information becomes available.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 29 June 2026

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June 29Jun 29

Venezuela Earthquake Death Toll Hits 1,450 as Search Continues

Venezuela

Venezuela Earthquake Death Toll Hits 1,450 as Search Continues

Rescue teams from Venezuela and around the world continued searching for survivors on Sunday, four days after two powerful earthquakes devastated the northern state of La Guaira, as the death toll climbed to 1,450.

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Thousands of people also remain missing, according to several databases being used by families trying to locate loved ones, while hopes of finding more survivors fade with each passing day.
Search Continues Despite Dwindling Odds
Emergency crews pressed on with rescue efforts despite the passing of the critical 48- to 72-hour window that aid agencies consider the best chance of finding people alive after a major disaster. Authorities said survival remains possible if those trapped have access to food and water.
On Sunday morning, rescue workers from the United States and France pulled a man and his son from the ruins of a collapsed building. Covered in dust, the pair were carried on a black tarp to an ambulance and given intravenous fluids as crowds gathered to watch.
The United Nations said more than 2,200 rescue workers from around the world had arrived by Saturday, with additional teams continuing to reach the disaster zone.
Civilian volunteer Jason Mercano, who had been communicating with relatives trapped beneath the rubble through social media, said rescuers remained determined.
"It's been incredibly hard work, but we're going strong," he said. "We've never given up hope."
Criticism of Government Response
The disaster has sparked growing criticism of the Venezuelan government, with many residents saying rescue operations were initially led largely by civilians rather than state authorities.
President Delcy Rodríguez's government said more than 14,000 military personnel and police officers were patrolling La Guaira, where access has been restricted and entry now requires special permits.
Officials also reported that more than 770 buildings had collapsed or suffered damage in the earthquakes, roughly double the number previously reported on Friday.
The earthquakes present a major challenge for Rodríguez, who assumed office in January following the U.S. capture and removal of former President Nicolás Maduro. Venezuela has struggled with prolonged economic difficulties for more than a decade, and many citizens continue to question the legitimacy of the political movement Rodríguez represents.
Destruction and International Aid
Scenes across La Guaira reflected the scale of the devastation. Families searched through the remains of collapsed buildings, calling out the names of missing relatives in the hope of hearing a response.
As temperatures remained high, many residents wore face masks because of the smell of decomposing bodies. Elsewhere, recovery teams loaded victims onto trucks from a hospital parking area where bodies were being identified.
Many rescuers worked with limited equipment, wearing motorcycle helmets instead of proper protective gear as they searched unstable piles of debris.
Frustration also boiled over at one rescue site, where residents prevented an excavator from leaving after accusing government workers of taking photographs at the scene without helping with recovery efforts.
The International Organization for Migration estimated that more than six million people could be affected by the disaster, including around two million residents of the capital, Caracas.
Experts said the extensive damage was intensified because the two shallow earthquakes struck in quick succession. Smaller aftershocks have continued to shake Caracas and surrounding areas, including a magnitude 4.8 tremor on Saturday.
International rescue teams and aid supplies continued arriving from countries including Mexico, the United States, Brazil, El Salvador and France.
Hope Amid the Tragedy
Despite the widespread destruction, occasional rescues have kept hope alive for families waiting at disaster sites.
Yonahí Regalado said she spent hours calling the names of her sister and one-year-old nephew until international rescue teams reached the area.
"It doesn't matter who it is, whoever, whether it's family or somebody else. If there is anyone alive, let's get them out," she said.
Small acts of compassion also emerged during the crisis. In one widely shared video, a Venezuelan rescuer comforted an elderly woman trapped beneath debris, reassuring her that he would remain beside her if the unstable structure collapsed.
Meanwhile, Simón Bolívar International Airport, which serves Caracas, suffered significant damage. One runway has reopened while U.S. teams continue repair work to restore the airport's operations, according to Jeremy Lewin, a senior U.S. State Department official overseeing foreign assistance.


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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 29 June 2026

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June 29Jun 29

How Scotland Escaped Europe's Murder Capital Label

UK

How Scotland Escaped Europe's Murder Capital Label

Scotland has transformed its approach to tackling violent crime, cutting homicide rates dramatically after shifting from a law enforcement-led strategy to one that treats violence as a public health issue.

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In the early 2000s, Scotland was described by the United Nations as the most violent country in the developed world. Between 2003 and 2005, Glasgow recorded the highest murder rate of any city in Europe, while Scots were almost three times more likely to be assaulted than Americans. Knife crime, gang violence and organised crime were widespread, particularly in Glasgow's east end.
Scotland Cut Violence by Treating It as a Public Health Issue
Faced with persistently high levels of violence, police and government officials established the Scottish Violence Reduction Unit (SVRU) in 2005. Rather than focusing solely on arrests and prosecutions, the unit adopted a prevention-based strategy that sought to address the underlying causes of violent behaviour.
Prevention replaces punishment
One of the SVRU's best-known initiatives came in 2008, when 85 rival gang members gathered at Glasgow Sheriff Court for an unusual intervention. Instead of a criminal trial, they heard from victims' relatives, doctors and others affected by violence, who described its devastating personal consequences.
Participants were offered confidential support to help them leave gang life behind. Similar sessions followed, attracting hundreds of young people, with almost 400 later seeking assistance.
The programme formed part of a broader strategy that viewed violence as a preventable problem rather than an inevitable feature of society. Officials compared the approach to tackling infectious disease, combining early intervention, support for those most at risk and measures aimed at preventing violence before it occurred.
Researchers identified key risk factors, including poverty, unemployment, unstable family environments and social deprivation. In response, the SVRU worked with schools, healthcare providers, social workers and community organisations to develop targeted programmes.
Broad partnerships drive lasting change
Many initiatives focused on supporting vulnerable people before violence occurred. Dentists and hospital staff were trained to identify signs of violence and direct patients towards specialist services. Schools were encouraged to reduce pupil exclusions, while charities introduced education programmes and support workers to help victims of violence in emergency departments.
The strategy also drew on successful initiatives from abroad, including programmes in Chicago and Cincinnati, but adapted them to Scotland's own circumstances rather than replicating them unchanged.
The results were significant. Over the following decade, Glasgow's homicide rate fell by 56%, while Scotland's overall homicide rate declined by 38%. Violent crime across the country dropped by almost one-third between 2006 and 2015, and Scotland now records its lowest homicide levels in more than two decades.
The country now sits around the middle of European rankings for murder rates, with fewer killings per head of population than Sweden, France, and England and Wales.
New challenges remain
Despite the progress, experts say further work is needed. A 2024 study found that reductions in serious violence have slowed, partly because of a shortage of safe spaces for young people.
Officials also point to new challenges, including the long-term effects of the Covid-19 pandemic, the influence of social media and continuing child poverty, with nearly one in four Scottish children growing up in poverty.
The profile of violent offenders has also changed. Whereas teenagers and young adults once accounted for most murder suspects, people in their 30s and 40s now make up the largest group, suggesting different forms of intervention may be required.
The Scottish model has attracted international attention. Since 2019, violence reduction units based on the Scottish approach have been established across 20 police force areas in England and Wales, with early assessments indicating reductions in the most serious forms of violence.
While Scotland's experience has become an example for other countries, those behind the programme argue that lasting success depends on continued investment in prevention, collaboration across public services and adapting interventions to emerging social challenges.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 29 June 2026

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June 29Jun 29

GOP Fears Trump Is Losing Voters on the Economy

USA

GOP Fears Trump Is Losing Voters on the Economy

Republican lawmakers are expressing growing concern that President Donald Trump is increasingly out of step with both GOP candidates and voters on the economy, as inflation and rising living costs remain central issues ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.

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Several Republican senators have urged Trump to focus more closely on household finances and promote his administration's economic record. Instead, they say, the president has concentrated on foreign policy, internal party disputes and election-related legislation, raising fears that Republicans could struggle to retain voter support.
Housing bill sparks frustration
Tensions intensified after Trump declined to sign the bipartisan 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act, despite the measure passing Congress with overwhelming support. The president said he would not approve the legislation until Congress passed the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE America) Act, a proposal that faces long odds of becoming law.
The decision surprised Senate Majority Leader John Thune and other Republican lawmakers, who argued that delaying the housing bill undermines efforts to address affordability concerns during a difficult political period.
Sen. John Cornyn said Republicans needed to remember that the midterm elections were approaching, while other lawmakers warned that abandoning widely supported legislation could further weaken the party's standing with independent voters.
Concerns over economic messaging
Republican senators have also questioned Trump's public comments about the economy, saying they risk reinforcing voter concerns about rising prices.
Sen. Thom Tillis said Americans wanted to know that leaders understood the financial pressures they faced and had a clear plan to address them. Recalling his own struggles with fuel costs decades ago, Tillis said voters would give policymakers time to solve economic problems if they believed their concerns were being acknowledged.
He suggested the conflict involving Iran had diverted the president's attention from domestic economic issues but argued that the administration should communicate more clearly that tackling inflation and living costs remains a priority.
Trump has also drawn criticism after saying he was not thinking about Americans' financial situations while working to negotiate an end to the Iran conflict. His allies argued the remarks were taken out of context and that he was referring to his focus on preventing Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon. Nevertheless, some Republican senators privately expressed discomfort with the comments.
Polls add to Republican concerns
Republican strategists say the economy remains the dominant issue for many voters, even as Trump prioritises national security and election-related measures.
Ron Bonjean, a Republican strategist, said the president's focus on Iran and the SAVE America Act was not aligned with the issues most important to many Americans, despite his belief that he was acting in their best interests.
A Republican senator, speaking anonymously, said internal polling showed independent voters moving away from Republicans. The lawmaker said negative perceptions of Trump's handling of the economy had worsened following US military strikes against Iran, which were followed by the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, higher fuel prices and increased fertiliser costs.
Recent public polling has also pointed to economic dissatisfaction. A Fox News survey found that 59% of registered voters felt pessimistic about the economy, while 44% said they were falling behind financially, both figures higher than a year earlier.
A PBS/NPR/Marist poll found that 33% of Americans approved of Trump's handling of the economy, the lowest level recorded by Marist on that issue since it began tracking the measure in 2019.
Pressure ahead of the midterms
Concerns about the political impact of the economy have also surfaced during private Republican meetings. According to a senior Republican aide, Sen. Tim Scott warned colleagues that polling had deteriorated for both the party and the president, arguing that the Justice Department's proposed $1.8 billion anti-weaponisation fund would further damage Republican prospects.
Veteran Republican strategist Vin Weber said voters would ultimately judge the administration based on economic conditions rather than messaging alone. While acknowledging that the president should show greater empathy toward voters' financial concerns, Weber argued that the overall state of the economy would remain the decisive factor in the election.
He added that Democrats were likely to highlight Trump's comments about the economy but said the broader economic environment and the president's approval ratings would have a greater influence on the outcome of the midterm elections.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 29 June 2026

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June 29Jun 29

Pakistan Airstrikes Kill Dozens in Afghanistan

Pakistan

Pakistan Airstrikes Kill Dozens in Afghanistan

Pakistan launched overnight airstrikes and a ground operation along its border with Afghanistan, with Afghan officials saying at least 36 civilians were killed and more than 160 injured, marking the latest escalation in tensions between the two neighbours.

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Afghanistan's Taliban government condemned the strikes, describing them as a "cowardly act of aggression" and an "act of brutality."
Hamdullah Fitrat, deputy spokesman for the Taliban administration, said Pakistani forces first struck a house in Chamkani district of Paktia province, killing an elderly man and a child and injuring several members of the same family.
Afghanistan Accuses Pakistan of Targeting Civilians
He said a second strike hit the area after local residents gathered to help those affected, killing 28 villagers and wounding 158 others.
In neighbouring Paktika province, another airstrike reportedly hit a home in Giyan district, killing six people, most of them women and children. Afghan officials also said a civilian house in Kunar province was struck, killing around 30 livestock but causing no human casualties.
Pakistan Says Militants Were Targeted
Pakistan said its military action targeted militant hideouts and safe havens following a series of attacks inside the country.
Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said security forces carried out a ground operation before launching airstrikes, killing 29 militants. He said the operation was a response to multiple attacks by armed groups operating against Pakistan.
Militant violence has increased in Pakistan in recent years, with authorities blaming the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and allied groups for many of the attacks. Although separate organisations, the TTP maintains close ties with Afghanistan's Taliban rulers, who returned to power in 2021.
The latest operation came after militants attacked the regional headquarters of Pakistan's paramilitary Rangers in Karachi, killing three soldiers. Pakistani security forces said they killed three attackers and captured a fourth suspect, whom they identified as an injured Afghan national.
Jamaat-ul-Ahrar, a faction that split from the Pakistani Taliban, claimed responsibility for the Karachi assault.
Conflict Continues Despite Peace Efforts
The latest cross-border operation took place less than three weeks after Pakistan carried out airstrikes on what it described as militant positions inside Afghanistan. Those strikes ended roughly a month of relative calm following what Islamabad had previously referred to as an "open war" between the two countries.
Relations have steadily deteriorated in recent months, with repeated military exchanges across the border. Hundreds of people have been killed in the fighting since February, when Afghanistan launched retaliatory strikes after earlier Pakistani air raids.
Several rounds of negotiations have failed to produce a lasting ceasefire. China hosted talks between the two countries in April and later said both sides had agreed to avoid further escalation while seeking a diplomatic solution to the conflict.


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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 29 June 2026

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June 29Jun 29

US, Iran Agree to Halt Strikes in Strait of Hormuz

Iranian Conflict

US, Iran Agree to Halt Strikes in Strait of Hormuz

The United States and Iran have agreed to "stand down" following several days of military exchanges that threatened a fragile ceasefire, according to media reports citing a US official.

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The reported agreement follows a series of attacks in and around the Strait of Hormuz, with both countries accusing each other of breaching the truce reached earlier this month.
Shipping Route to Reopen
The US official told CBS News, the BBC's US partner, that vessels would once again be able to move through the Strait of Hormuz "freely". The official also said negotiations aimed at bringing the conflict to an end would continue.
Iran has not publicly commented on reports that it has agreed to halt attacks in the strategic waterway.
On 17 June, the US and Iran signed a 14-point Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), which called for the "immediate and permanent termination of military operations on all fronts".
Under the agreement, Iran also pledged to make its "best efforts" to ensure the safe passage of commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz without charge for 60 days.
Ceasefire Under Pressure
The ceasefire came under renewed strain after an Iranian projectile struck a cargo ship in the Strait of Hormuz on Thursday.
The US responded over the weekend with strikes on multiple targets in Iran. US Central Command (Centcom) said the operation was a direct response to Iran's "continued aggression" against commercial shipping.
Iran then launched strikes on US bases in Kuwait and Bahrain on Saturday. The US said the attacks failed to reach their intended targets and caused no casualties or damage.
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world's most important shipping routes for oil and gas exports. Tehran had effectively closed the waterway after the US and Israel launched attacks on Iran at the end of February.
Lebanon Ceasefire Also Tested
Separately, the US helped broker a framework agreement between Israel and Lebanon on Friday, with the aim of laying the foundations for a lasting peace.
However, the agreement quickly came under pressure as fighting continued between Israeli forces and the Iranian-backed Hezbollah movement in southern Lebanon.
Hezbollah's leader rejected the deal, accusing the Lebanese government of undermining the country's sovereignty.
Two days after the agreement was signed, the Israeli military said it had destroyed a 200-metre-long tunnel in southern Lebanon that it said was used by Hezbollah and contained hundreds of weapons.
A joint statement from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Israel Katz said the US had been informed before the strike.
Tehran has said an end to hostilities in Lebanon is necessary for any broader regional ceasefire to hold.


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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 29 June 2026

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June 29Jun 29

'Horrific' Scene as 117 Dead Dogs Found at Shelter

USA

'Horrific' Scene as 117 Dead Dogs Found at Shelter

Authorities in California have discovered the remains of at least 117 dogs buried at a self-described "no-kill" animal shelter, with investigators saying many of the animals appeared to have died from gunshot wounds.

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The remains were uncovered during searches at Miranda's Rescue Animal Sanctuary, a 50-acre facility in Fortuna, northern California. The Humboldt County Sheriff's Office said investigators also found 21 canine skulls, hundreds of bones and other animal remains across the property.
Investigation uncovers mass burial site
Investigators searching the site on Thursday identified an area inside a barn where they believe dogs were likely killed. More than 600 dog collars were recovered nearby, according to the sheriff's office.
Sheriff William Honsal described the discovery as a "horrific scene" and said the investigation remains in its early stages. No criminal charges have been filed.
The inquiry began in April after authorities received what they described as credible allegations of felony animal abuse, animal cruelty, fraud and conspiracy involving the shelter.
Using ground-penetrating radar, investigators located 117 intact canine remains buried in an open field in various stages of decomposition. Seventy of the remains were examined with portable X-ray equipment, which revealed bullet fragments in many cases. Authorities said gunshot wounds appeared to be the cause of death for numerous animals. Additional remains in more advanced stages of decomposition were also recovered.
Court documents from an earlier search state that investigators were alerted by two animal advocates, including a neighbouring property owner who used trail cameras to monitor activity near an alleged burial site. The pair later entered the shelter property and uncovered dog remains, according to the affidavit.
Shelter defends its practices
Miranda's Rescue receives animals transferred from shelters and accepted from private owners. The organisation also collects transfer fees and donations, saying the money helps cover food, veterinary treatment, medications, staffing and operating expenses.
A request for comment was left for the shelter's founder, Shannon Miranda.
In a statement published on the organisation's website on 18 June, Miranda said recent media reports and online commentary had presented "an incomplete and, in some cases, inaccurate picture" of the rescue's work.
Miranda said the organisation's mission was to save as many animals as possible while balancing animal welfare with public safety. The statement maintained that the rescue does not euthanise animals simply to create space.
However, Miranda said euthanasia may be carried out in rare circumstances, including when an animal is terminally ill or poses a serious and ongoing danger to people or other animals.
Investigation remains ongoing
Sheriff Honsal said investigators still have extensive evidence to examine, including physical evidence, witness interviews and data collected during the searches.
The sheriff said hundreds of dogs had been transferred or surrendered to Miranda's Rescue by private owners and animal shelters over the years. Authorities said the investigation remains ongoing, with no charges filed so far.


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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 29 June 2026

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June 29Jun 29

Putin Admits Ukraine Strikes Hit Russian Fuel Supplies

Ukraine Conflict

Putin Admits Ukraine Strikes Hit Russian Fuel Supplies

Russia is facing fuel shortages caused by repeated Ukrainian strikes on its energy infrastructure, President Vladimir Putin has acknowledged, while insisting the situation remains under control.

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In an interview published by the Kremlin on Sunday, Putin said attacks on Russian energy facilities had created "a certain shortage" of fuel, describing the impact as "obvious" but not severe.
Ukraine has intensified long-range strikes on Russian oil refineries, fuel depots and logistics networks, saying the attacks are a response to Russia's continued bombardment of Ukrainian cities and energy infrastructure since launching its full-scale invasion in February 2022.
Fuel supply challenges
Speaking about the attacks, Putin said strikes on critical infrastructure, particularly energy facilities, had disrupted supplies.
"Right now we're observing a certain shortage, but it's not critical," he said.
Putin added that Russia's immediate priorities were to strengthen air defences and maintain fuel supplies, especially to the Crimean Peninsula.
On Friday, authorities in Russian-annexed Crimea declared a state of emergency over fuel shortages and power outages caused by Ukrainian attacks on logistics routes and oil facilities.
Russia annexed Crimea from Ukraine in 2014, a move rejected by most countries.
Pledge to strengthen security
Earlier on Sunday, Putin addressed members of the ruling United Russia party, promising to reinforce national security as Ukraine steps up strikes inside Russian territory.
He said the government recognised the problems created by the attacks but would ensure the country's security and protect its borders.
Putin also said Russia would overcome the challenges posed by what he described as attacks on its territory and infrastructure.
Ukraine targets refineries
Putin's remarks came after a Ukrainian drone strike killed one person in Russia's southern Krasnodar region and sparked a fire at an oil refinery, according to regional governor Veniamin Kondratyev.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said the attack formed part of operations aimed at reducing Russia's ability to continue the war.
Writing on X, Zelenskyy said Ukrainian forces had struck the Slavyansk oil refinery in the Krasnodar region, about 300 kilometres from the front line, as well as another refinery in Russia's Yaroslavl region, roughly 700 kilometres from the Ukrainian border.
Last week, another Ukrainian strike triggered a major fire at a refinery south-east of Moscow, sending thick black smoke across parts of the capital's suburbs.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 29 June 2026

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June 28Jun 28

US-Iran Strikes Escalate, Jeopardising Fragile Truce

Iranian Conflict

US-Iran Strikes Escalate, Jeopardising Fragile Truce

The fragile ceasefire between the United States and Iran has come under renewed strain after both sides exchanged fresh military strikes, raising fears that recent diplomatic progress could collapse.

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Iran launched drones and missiles at Bahrain and Kuwait on Sunday following new US strikes on military facilities in southern Iran. Tehran warned it could suspend negotiations aimed at ending the conflict, while US President Donald Trump threatened overwhelming military action if talks failed.
Writing on social media, Trump said the United States could soon abandon negotiations and "militarily finish the job", adding that, if forced to do so, "the Islamic Republic of Iran will no longer exist."
Attacks Spread Across Gulf Region
Kuwait said its air defences intercepted two ballistic missiles and reported no casualties or damage. Bahrain said an Iranian strike damaged a residential building near its international airport, although no deaths were reported.
Qatar said one of its citizens was killed and another injured by shrapnel while aboard a boat that had gone missing the previous day. Authorities did not specify where the incident occurred or whether it was directly linked to the Iranian attacks.
Strait of Hormuz Dispute Drives Tensions
The latest escalation centres on competing plans to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most strategically important shipping routes, without Iran maintaining direct control.
Before the conflict, roughly one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas supplies passed through the waterway.
The US military said its latest strikes targeted Iranian surveillance systems, communications infrastructure, air defence positions, drone storage facilities and mine-laying sites. US Central Command said the operation was a response to continued Iranian attacks on commercial shipping.
Washington has promoted a southern shipping corridor along Oman's coastline, while Tehran insists vessels should instead transit through northern waters under Iranian oversight, where it ultimately hopes to impose transit fees.
Hundreds of commercial vessels have remained stranded since the strait was closed after fighting began. Although some ships have resumed using the route in recent weeks, helping oil prices fall closer to pre-war levels, attacks on commercial shipping have continued.
The US accused Iran of attacking the Panama-flagged oil tanker Kiku on Saturday while it was using the southern corridor. A Singapore-flagged container ship was also reportedly hit by an Iranian drone last week while following the same route.
Diplomacy Faces Mounting Pressure
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi reiterated Tehran's claim that only Iran should oversee navigation through the Strait of Hormuz during a visit to Iraq.
He warned that any attempt to establish alternative arrangements would complicate efforts to reopen the waterway and further increase regional tensions. Araghchi also called for a regional security framework involving Gulf states but excluding the United States.
Qatar and Pakistan have been mediating negotiations between Washington and Tehran after helping bring both sides together in Switzerland earlier this month. However, major disagreements remain over the future of the strait, sanctions relief and Iran's nuclear programme.
Under an interim memorandum signed earlier this month, both countries have 60 days to negotiate a permanent agreement.
Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps claimed responsibility for Sunday's attacks and warned that any ceasefire violations would halt the diplomatic process. It also threatened US military bases across the region.
Fighting Continues in Lebanon
The renewed violence has also spread beyond the Gulf, threatening efforts to stabilise neighbouring Lebanon.
Israel said one of its soldiers was killed during an encounter with a Hezbollah fighter in southern Lebanon. Lebanese state media also reported fresh Israeli strikes near the towns of Deir Seryan and Taybeh.
The clashes came just two days after Israel and Lebanon reached an agreement intended to reduce hostilities, including the phased withdrawal of Israeli forces from southern Lebanon and their replacement by the Lebanese army.
The continued fighting further complicates efforts to secure a lasting agreement between Washington and Tehran, with Iran maintaining that any broader peace depends on a sustained ceasefire in Lebanon.


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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 29 June 2026

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June 28Jun 28

11 Killed After Skydiver School Plane Crashes in France

Accident

11 Killed After Skydiver School Plane Crashes in France

French authorities say 11 people have died after a civilian aircraft crashed in north-eastern France shortly after take-off from a local airfield.

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The aircraft came down in the town of Tomblaine, in the Meurthe-et-Moselle department, killing the pilot and all 10 passengers on board.
All on Board Killed
Local officials said the victims included five students and five instructors. The aircraft belonged to a skydiver training school and had departed from the Nancy-Essey airfield before the crash, according to local media.
No survivors have been reported.
Emergency Response
Police have urged people to avoid the area around the airport while emergency services respond to the incident and secure the crash site.
The cause of the crash has not yet been announced.
Interior Minister Travelling to Scene
France's interior ministry said the interior minister was travelling to the crash site as authorities continued their response.
An investigation into the circumstances of the crash is expected.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 28 June 2026

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June 28Jun 28

Prosecutor Held in Contempt in Charlie Kirk Murder Case

USA

Prosecutor Held in Contempt in Charlie Kirk Murder Case

A Utah judge has held a prosecutor in civil contempt for violating a pretrial publicity order in the murder case against the man accused of killing conservative activist Charlie Kirk, but declined to remove the death penalty as a possible sentence if the defendant is convicted.

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Judge Tony Graf ruled on Friday that prosecutor Christopher Ballard, who also serves as a spokesperson for the Utah County Attorney’s Office, made public comments that risked prejudicing potential jurors. The remarks were made while responding to media reports about an inconclusive ballistics report referenced in a defense court filing.
Graf found Ballard was entitled to clarify aspects of the forensic report after the defense publicised its interpretation. However, the judge said the prosecutor went too far by commenting on the overall strength of the state's case against defendant Tyler Robinson.
In his ruling, Graf said Ballard’s additional remarks created a substantial likelihood of influencing prospective jurors by expressing the prosecution’s view of Robinson’s guilt. He said those comments introduced an unnecessary discussion of the merits of the case rather than simply correcting misconceptions about the evidence.


Picture courtesy of NewsNation
Death Penalty Bid Remains
Despite finding Ballard in contempt, Graf rejected the defence's request to bar prosecutors from pursuing the death penalty if Robinson is ultimately convicted.
Instead, the judge said any potential impact from the prosecutor’s comments could be addressed during jury selection. He also ordered that the defence be reimbursed for legal costs associated with the contempt proceedings.
The ruling is a setback for Robinson, 23, who faces charges including aggravated murder, felony use of a firearm, obstruction of justice, witness tampering and committing a violent act in the presence of a child. The charges stem from the fatal shooting of Kirk on a Utah college campus last September.
Robinson has not yet entered pleas.
Dispute Over Ballistics Evidence
The contempt dispute centred on statements Ballard made after news organisations reported on a defence filing concerning an inconclusive ballistics examination by the US Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
According to the defence filing, the ATF could not identify the bullet recovered during Kirk’s autopsy as having been fired from the rifle allegedly linked to Robinson.
Prosecutors argued that description omitted another key finding: the ATF was also unable to rule out the rifle as the source of the bullet.
Ballard maintained his comments were intended to explain why forensic testing can sometimes produce inconclusive results and to counter what he described as misinformation contained in the defence filing.
Graf agreed those explanations fell within an exception to the court’s publicity order, which permits limited public comments to counter potentially prejudicial publicity.
However, the judge ruled that Ballard crossed the line when he later told TMZ that prosecutors had "ample evidence" against Robinson and believed they could overcome the presumption of innocence at trial.
Graf concluded those comments were unrelated to correcting misunderstandings about the ballistics report and instead reflected the prosecution’s opinion of the case.
Further Proceedings Ahead
The contempt ruling followed earlier hearings on evidentiary issues and a defence request to prevent prosecutors from seeking the death penalty as a sanction for the publicity violation.
Prosecutors argued such a penalty would be disproportionate, while the defence suggested other possible sanctions against Ballard, including legal education requirements or referral to the state bar association.
Although Graf declined to impose the defence's requested remedy, the contempt finding and reimbursement of legal fees remain in place as the case moves toward further pretrial proceedings.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 28 June 2026

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June 28Jun 28

Texas Approves Mandatory Bible Reading in Schools

USA

Texas Approves Mandatory Bible Reading in Schools

The Texas State Board of Education has voted to require public school students to read selected passages from the Bible as part of a new statewide literature curriculum.

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The Republican-controlled board approved the required reading list on Friday by a 9-5-1 vote. The list includes excerpts from the Book of Exodus for fifth-grade students, The Shepherd's Psalm for seventh graders and other biblical passages.
The new curriculum also features works by E.B. White, Shel Silverstein, Aesop, Kurt Vonnegut and Elie Wiesel. It will affect more than five million students enrolled in Texas public schools.
Bible added to mandatory literature list
Board members debated the proposal before the vote, discussing the timeline for implementation and whether the changes would limit teachers' ability to decide which works should be taught in their classrooms.
Supporters cite historical and literary value
Julie Pickren, a Republican member of the Texas State Board of Education, previously told The Texas Tribune that the selected readings are intended to give students a better understanding of the moral and philosophical traditions that have shaped Western civilization.
She said studying original writings, speeches, sermons and other foundational texts allows students to evaluate ideas while gaining a deeper understanding of the principles that have influenced both the United States and Texas.
Supporters have argued that the Bible holds significant literary and historical value and should be studied alongside other influential works.
Critics raise constitutional concerns
Opponents of the measure argued that requiring a state-approved reading list reduces teachers' professional independence.
Board member Evelyn Brooks said teachers have selected classroom books for many years and should retain that responsibility. She argued that imposing a mandatory list takes away their autonomy and said she believes the policy is unconstitutional.
The debate over the proposal focused not only on the inclusion of biblical passages but also on whether the state should dictate required reading for every public school classroom.
Experts question broader impact
Antero Garcia, a professor at Stanford University's Graduate School of Education and a former high school English teacher, described the new curriculum as a major shift in what students across Texas will study during their years in public education.
Garcia said he believes the measure is the first of its kind at the state level and suggested other states with similar political priorities could adopt comparable policies.
He acknowledged that the Bible has long been taught as an important work of literature in secular educational settings and said its literary significance should not be overlooked.
However, Garcia noted that no other religious texts appear on the mandatory reading list. He said repeated exposure to a single religious work throughout students' education, without comparable study of other faith traditions, could influence students toward Christianity over time.
The decision marks a significant change to Texas' public school literature curriculum and is expected to shape classroom instruction across the state's education system.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 28 June 2026

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June 28Jun 28

US Launches Fresh Strikes on Iran After Tanker Attack

Iranian Conflict

US Launches Fresh Strikes on Iran After Tanker Attack

The United States has carried out a new round of strikes on Iran after a drone attack hit a Panama-flagged oil tanker in the Strait of Hormuz, further escalating tensions despite a ceasefire agreement reached earlier this month.

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US Central Command (Centcom) said the strikes targeted military equipment, communications systems, air defence sites and drone storage facilities. It described the operation as a direct response to what it called Iran's continued attacks on commercial shipping.
According to Centcom, Iran had been given an opportunity to uphold the ceasefire but instead launched a one-way attack drone that struck the tanker MT Kiku. The US military said its response was intended to deter further attacks on vessels using the strategic waterway.
Iran vows stronger response
Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said the US had struck five coastal positions, claiming Washington justified the attacks by accusing the IRGC Navy of confronting the tanker.
The IRGC also announced missile and drone strikes against US infrastructure in Kuwait and Bahrain. It warned that violations of the ceasefire would halt the implementation of the agreement and said any future attacks, regardless of their scale, would receive a "crushing response".
The statement added that, under a memorandum of understanding signed earlier this month, Iran has authority over navigation arrangements in the Strait of Hormuz and said vessels deemed to be in violation would face tougher enforcement measures.
Following the Iranian response, Kuwait said its air defence systems had intercepted hostile missiles and drones, while Bahrain urged residents to remain calm and seek shelter in safe locations.
Trump issues fresh warning
US President Donald Trump responded on Truth Social, saying it was "very possible" that Tehran would "never learn".
He warned that there could come a point when the United States would no longer be able to act with restraint and would instead "militarily complete the job" it had begun. Trump added that, if that happened, "the Islamic Republic of Iran will no longer exist."
Despite the renewed fighting, Centcom said commercial shipping continued to move through the Strait of Hormuz.
Shipping dispute deepens
The latest military action came less than a day after the US launched strikes in response to a separate drone attack on the Singapore-flagged cargo ship MV Ever Lovely on 25 June.
Washington said that earlier attack breached the ceasefire by targeting commercial shipping. Tehran rejected that claim, arguing the vessel had travelled through the Gulf using an unauthorised route and that the US retaliation itself violated the agreement.
The ceasefire memorandum, agreed on 17 June, called on Iran to use its "best efforts" to ensure the safe, toll-free passage of commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz for 60 days.
The waterway, which handles a significant share of global oil and gas exports, was effectively closed after US and Israeli strikes on Iran in February, disrupting energy markets and pushing up global oil prices.
In recent days, US officials had expressed optimism about negotiations, with Trump stating that Iran had assured Washington it would not impose tolls or other charges on ships using the strait. He warned that talks would end immediately if those assurances proved false.
Iranian and Omani officials met in Muscat earlier this week to discuss future navigation arrangements. While Oman reiterated support for toll-free passage, Iran's chief negotiator, Mohammed Bagher Ghalibaf, said the administration of the Strait of Hormuz "will never go back to the way it was before the war."


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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 28 June 2026

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June 28Jun 28

Trump's 100% EU Tariff Threat Faces Legal Limits

USA

Trump's 100% EU Tariff Threat Faces Legal Limits

President Donald Trump's latest threat to impose 100% tariffs on goods from European countries that introduce digital services taxes has drawn a more subdued response than similar warnings did a year ago, reflecting legal limits on his ability to act.

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In a post on Truth Social on Friday, Trump said any European country implementing a digital services tax would face an "immediate" 100% tariff on all goods exported to the United States. He also said such tariffs would override existing trade agreements.
Supreme Court ruling limits tariff powers
Digital services taxes are designed to allow governments to collect revenue from large online businesses, including digital advertising, streaming services and other internet-based platforms, even if those companies are not profitable. Because many of the world's biggest technology firms are based in the United States, Trump has argued that the taxes unfairly target American companies. The nonpartisan Congressional Research Service has previously said that criticism applies in some cases.
Court curbed emergency tariff authority
The legal landscape has changed significantly since Trump's earlier tariff threats. In February, the Supreme Court ruled that he had exceeded his authority by using the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, a 1974 law, to impose sweeping tariffs. The administration had argued that the statute allowed the president to introduce tariffs quickly during national emergencies, but the court rejected that interpretation.
Writing for the majority, Chief Justice John Roberts said Congress had not granted the president such broad authority, noting that tariff powers are subject to clear statutory limits.
Jeffrey Schwab, senior counsel and director of litigation at the Liberty Justice Center, which brought the case challenging the tariffs, said the president cannot impose tariffs without following the procedures established by Congress and meeting the legal conditions required.
Alternative trade measures remain slower
Following the Supreme Court ruling, the administration shifted to a different approach, introducing a temporary 10% tariff that is due to expire next month. It has also launched investigations under Section 301 of US trade law, a process that can lead to tariffs but typically takes months to complete.
During Trump's first term, several Section 301 investigations examined European digital services taxes. Those inquiries did not ultimately result in additional tariffs, instead serving as leverage during trade negotiations.
While the administration could seek to rely on those investigations again to accelerate action, trade law still imposes procedural requirements. As a result, analysts say Trump's latest threat of immediate 100% tariffs appears unlikely to be implemented quickly under existing legal constraints.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 27 June 2026

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June 27Jun 27

Harry and Meghan to Stay at Royal Residence During UK Visit

UK

Harry and Meghan to Stay at Royal Residence During UK Visit

Prince Harry and Meghan, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, will stay at a royal residence during their visit to the UK next month after accepting an invitation from King Charles III, marking the first time they have done so since stepping back from royal duties in 2020.

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The visit will be the couple's first trip to Britain together in four years and their first family visit since 2022. They will be joined by their children, Prince Archie, 7, and Princess Lilibet, 5, although the children are not expected to appear at public events.
First acceptance of royal accommodation
A palace source previously said the Sussex family had been offered accommodation on the royal estate for future visits, but this is the first occasion they have accepted the invitation.
CNN understands the family will divide their stay between a royal residence and private accommodation during the trip.
Harry and Meghan left royal life in 2020 and moved to California, saying they wanted to become financially independent. Their departure was followed by years of public tensions with the royal family. In interviews and Harry's memoir, the couple cited media intrusion, family disputes and racism within British institutions as factors behind their decision to leave.


Picture courtesy of BBC/Reuters
Signs of improving relations
Harry has returned to the UK several times since relocating to the US. Meghan accompanied him for Queen Elizabeth II's funeral in 2022, while Harry attended King Charles III's coronation alone in 2023.
In September last year, Harry and the King met privately at Clarence House for the first time in 19 months, as Charles underwent cancer treatment. The meeting fuelled speculation that relations between the two were improving, and they are reported to have remained in contact. Harry, however, is still believed to be estranged from his brother, Prince William.
Invictus Games events
The trip will centre on events marking one year until the 2027 Invictus Games in Birmingham, the international sporting competition for wounded, injured and sick service personnel founded by Harry.
The visit will begin with Invictus-related engagements in London, where Meghan will join him, before Harry attends additional events in the Midlands linked to charities and causes he supports.
The family's security arrangements have not been disclosed. Harry has previously expressed concerns about bringing Meghan and their children to Britain after losing taxpayer-funded police protection when he stepped back from royal duties. While staying at a royal residence, however, the family will be covered by existing security arrangements.
Details of the family's private activities during the visit have not been made public.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 27 June 2026

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June 27Jun 27

Starmer Rejects Call to Sack Immigration Minister

Immigration

Starmer Rejects Call to Sack Immigration Minister

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has rejected a request from Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood to dismiss immigration minister Mike Tapp after a dispute over an unauthorised newspaper article on government immigration policy.

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The disagreement arose after Tapp wrote an opinion article for The Times arguing that foreign care workers should be exempt from proposed changes to visa settlement rules affecting migrants already living in the UK.
A Home Office source said Mahmood viewed the article as unauthorised "freelancing on policy" and believed it breached both collective responsibility and the Ministerial Code. She asked Starmer to remove her junior minister from government.
PM backs both ministers
However, Downing Street rejected that request, saying it is solely the prime minister's responsibility to determine whether the Ministerial Code has been breached. A spokesperson said Tapp had instead been reminded of his obligations under the code, including collective responsibility and the proper procedures for clearing and presenting government policy.
Earlier, Downing Street said Starmer continued to have confidence in both Mahmood and Tapp.


Pictures courtesy of AOL
Row over visa policy
In his article, Tapp argued that care workers who entered the UK legally on care worker visas and had contributed to the country's social care sector should not face longer waits before becoming eligible for settlement.
He wrote that he believed those who had "played by the rules" and made a genuine contribution to the care system should be exempt from the planned changes, adding that the issue was one he had been working to resolve.
After the article appeared, a Home Office source told the BBC that Tapp was expected to be dismissed for breaching the Ministerial Code, accusing him of presenting policy ideas being developed by Mahmood's team as his own.
The Ministerial Code states that collective responsibility allows ministers to debate policy privately but requires them to present a united public position once decisions have been made.
Public exchange
Responding on X, Tapp rejected the allegations, saying the dispute had shifted from claims that he broke the Ministerial Code to accusations that he had taken someone else's ideas.
He said he had been working on the policy for months and claimed to have "the receipts" to support that assertion. Tapp also said he would not be intimidated into abandoning his views.
Supporters of Mahmood interpreted the reference to "receipts" as a possible threat to disclose sensitive government documents.
According to reports, that prompted the home secretary to limit Tapp's access to official documents and government meetings.
Later, Tapp sought to ease tensions, writing on X that he had "a lot of respect" for Mahmood and would continue working hard for the country.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 27 June 2026

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June 27Jun 27

UK to Launch New Sponsored Asylum Routes

UK-Politics

UK to Launch New Sponsored Asylum Routes

The UK government will introduce new capped legal routes for refugees to enter the country later this year, allowing universities, community groups and businesses to sponsor asylum seekers under a system modelled on Canada's refugee sponsorship programme.

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The Home Office said the scheme is designed to expand safe and legal pathways while tightening rules intended to reduce what it describes as abusive asylum claims. The announcement comes ahead of the government's immigration bill being presented to Parliament, where some measures are expected to face opposition from Labour MPs.
New sponsorship system
Under the new framework, approved organisations, including "trusted universities", will be able to sponsor refugees seeking protection in the UK. A separate work-based route is due to launch next year, enabling employers to sponsor refugees.
Applications for the university sponsorship programme will open later this year, with the first arrivals expected in 2027.
The government said the number of people admitted through the new routes will be capped, initially starting at a low level. It added that the Home Office will decide which organisations are eligible to act as sponsors, while all applicants will undergo strict security and eligibility checks.
Officials said the new programme is intended to become the long-term foundation of the UK's asylum system and eventually operate on a much larger scale than the existing UK Resettlement Scheme (UKRS).
Balancing access and enforcement
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said the reforms would protect people fleeing conflict and persecution while ensuring the asylum system remains controlled and commands public confidence.
The government said it is also continuing with plans to tighten how human rights and modern slavery laws apply to asylum cases. Ministers argue the changes are needed to prevent unfounded claims and close loopholes.
The reforms include changes to the application of the right to family life under the European Convention on Human Rights, which ministers say has been used to challenge rejected asylum claims. The Home Office also plans to amend the Modern Slavery Act, removing protection from foreign nationals who have received custodial sentences or where there is evidence documents have been forged.
Pressure on the asylum system
The government has faced pressure to reduce the number of asylum seekers housed in taxpayer-funded hotels, while continued small boat crossings have fuelled criticism of the asylum system.
Although community sponsorship already exists under the UKRS, the Home Office said most refugees are currently supported by local authorities. The new sponsorship model is intended to broaden that support base by involving a wider range of organisations.
Cabinet disagreement
The policy announcement also coincided with a disagreement within government over wider immigration reforms.
Junior minister Mike Tapp argued that foreign care workers should be exempt from planned visa changes affecting migrants already living in the UK. According to reports, Mahmood sought Tapp's dismissal following his public comments, but Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer declined to remove him.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 27 June 2026

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June 27Jun 27

Ex-Trump Adviser Bolton Pleads Guilty in Documents Case

USA

Ex-Trump Adviser Bolton Pleads Guilty in Documents Case

John Bolton, the former US national security adviser under President Donald Trump, has pleaded guilty to unlawfully retaining classified information, bringing to a close a long-running investigation linked to notes he kept while preparing his memoir.

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Bolton, who has become one of Trump's most outspoken Republican critics since leaving the White House, originally faced 18 charges over the alleged mishandling of classified material. On Friday, however, he admitted a single count of illegally retaining classified information as part of a plea agreement.
Guilty plea and penalties
The charge relates to diary entries containing national defence information, including material classified at the top-secret level. Prosecutors said Bolton could face up to five years in prison and has agreed to pay fines totalling $2.25 million (£1.7 million).
As part of the agreement, Bolton will also debrief national security officials on the classified information he retained and complete 100 hours of community service, according to CBS News. He is due to be sentenced on 28 October.
During the hearing, the judge outlined allegations that Bolton had shared diary entries containing sensitive information with family members. Asked whether the allegations were true, Bolton replied: "I did, your honour," before adding that he was "sorry for it."
Prosecutors and defence respond
US Attorney Kelly Hayes said Bolton fully understood the rules governing classified information because of his senior government positions.
"He also knew the damage to national security that could be caused by mishandling that sensitive information," Hayes said. "Nevertheless, as Mr Bolton just admitted, he put our national security at grave risk in violation of the law."
Bolton's lawyer, Abbe Lowell, said his client accepted responsibility and avoided a prolonged trial that could have exposed additional classified information.
Lowell contrasted Bolton's actions with Trump's handling of classified documents, arguing the president had never accepted responsibility over the separate criminal case brought against him in 2023. That case was later dismissed after Trump returned to office.
Following the plea, Trump wrote on Truth Social that he hoped Bolton would be "dealt with harshly".
Long-running investigation
Bolton served as Trump's national security adviser until his dismissal in 2019. His 2020 memoir, The Room Where It Happened, offered a highly critical account of the Trump administration.
The White House unsuccessfully sought to block publication, arguing the manuscript contained classified information that had not been properly reviewed. Although the book was published, the Justice Department later launched an investigation into whether Bolton had improperly disclosed classified material.
Prosecutors also accused Bolton of sending some classified documents from his time in office to two relatives. The indictment further alleged that a hacker briefly gained access to an online account where some of the documents were stored and issued a threat referencing Hillary Clinton's email controversy.
Rare prosecution
Bolton's indictment came amid several criminal cases involving critics of Trump, including former FBI Director James Comey and New York Attorney General Letitia James. However, former federal prosecutors told the BBC that Bolton's case differed because of the strength of the evidence and his admission of wrongdoing.
A person familiar with the plea agreement said Bolton also wanted to avoid a trial that might require the disclosure of additional classified information.
Carrie Cordero, a senior fellow at the Center for a New American Security, said prosecutions involving classified information are uncommon but not unprecedented, noting that both junior and senior government officials have faced similar cases.
Before joining the Trump administration, Bolton served as US ambassador to the United Nations under President George W. Bush. He also lost his Secret Service protection earlier this year after Trump returned to office.


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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 27 June 2026

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June 27Jun 27

US Strikes Iranian Targets After Cargo Ship Attack

Iranian Conflict

US Strikes Iranian Targets After Cargo Ship Attack

US forces carried out strikes on Iranian military targets after Washington accused Tehran of breaching a ceasefire agreement by attacking a commercial cargo ship in the Strait of Hormuz.

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The action followed an incident on Thursday in which a one-way attack drone struck a cargo vessel transiting the strategic waterway. No casualties were reported, but the attack prompted plans to evacuate more than 11,000 sailors who had remained in the region amid heightened security concerns.
President Donald Trump described the attack as a "foolish violation" of the truce between the United States and Iran. Asked shortly before the military operation whether Washington would retaliate, Trump replied: "You'll see."
Military response
US Central Command (Centcom) said on Friday that American forces targeted Iranian missile and drone storage facilities, along with coastal radar sites, in response to the attack.
In a statement, Centcom described the operation as "a powerful response" to what it called Iranian aggression against commercial shipping.
It said the drone strike had clearly violated the ceasefire and accused Iran of threatening freedom of navigation through one of the world's most important maritime trade routes.
Centcom added that US forces would continue coordinating and supporting the safe passage of commercial vessels travelling through the Strait of Hormuz.
Strait of Hormuz tensions
The latest escalation comes months after fighting between the United States, Israel and Iran disrupted shipping in the Gulf.
Following US and Israeli attacks on Iran that began at the end of February, Tehran effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz, a vital corridor for global oil and gas exports. The disruption drove up international oil prices and delayed shipments of other key commodities, including fertiliser.
The strait is regarded as one of the world's most strategically significant waterways because a substantial share of global energy supplies passes through it.
Ceasefire under strain
The United States and Iran reached a 14-point memorandum of understanding on 17 June aimed at ending hostilities.
Among its provisions, Iran agreed to use its "best efforts" to ensure the safe passage of commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz without imposing charges for a period of 60 days.
Washington said Thursday's drone attack breached those commitments, prompting the military response announced by Centcom.
The strikes mark the latest setback for efforts to stabilise the region following weeks of conflict and renewed international concern over the security of commercial shipping in the Gulf.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 27 June 2026

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June 26Jun 26

Israel, Lebanon Agree Initial Troop Withdrawal Deal

Middle East

Israel, Lebanon Agree Initial Troop Withdrawal Deal

Israel will withdraw from two locations in southern Lebanon under a new agreement reached after four days of negotiations in Washington, marking what officials described as an initial step toward broader talks between the neighboring countries.

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The agreement, brokered by the United States and signed by representatives of Israel and Lebanon, provides for the transfer of the two sites to the Lebanese Armed Forces as part of a pilot arrangement linked to the existing ceasefire.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the withdrawals involve one area north of the Litani River and another south of it. He described the move as the removal of Israeli troops from positions the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) "does not need," while stressing that Israel would continue to maintain a military presence in other occupied parts of southern Lebanon.
Pilot withdrawal under US-backed deal
The agreement emerged during a fifth round of US-hosted talks aimed at encouraging wider cooperation between Israel and Lebanon, two countries that have never established diplomatic relations.
A senior Israeli official said the trilateral agreement between Israel, Lebanon and the United States would create the conditions for a "future agreement" as efforts continue toward a broader peace arrangement.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio acknowledged that significant challenges remain but described the signing as an important milestone.
"Today is the beginning of the beginning," Rubio said during the signing ceremony. He added that while difficult negotiations lie ahead, the United States was honored to help facilitate the process.
Lebanon's ambassador to the United States, Nada Hamadeh Moawad, called the agreement the "first step on the road to restoring Lebanese sovereignty and territorial integrity."
Lebanon welcomes agreement
Under the arrangement, the Lebanese Armed Forces will deploy to the two locations vacated by Israeli troops. The pilot programme forms part of the latest ceasefire agreement between the two countries.
The announcement follows earlier indications that Israel was considering limited withdrawals from occupied territory in southern Lebanon as a goodwill gesture during negotiations.
On Thursday, the IDF said it would temporarily reduce its troop levels in Lebanon but did not mention relinquishing territory. A day earlier, Israel's defence minister had stated that Israeli forces would remain in Lebanon even if the United States requested their withdrawal.
Netanyahu links deal to Hezbollah
Netanyahu portrayed the agreement as beneficial for Israel, saying it allows Israeli forces to remain in much of the territory they currently occupy until Hezbollah is disarmed.
He also described the agreement as a setback for Iran, accusing Tehran of attempting to pressure Israel into withdrawing from southern Lebanon through force.
Following the signing, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun thanked the Trump administration for hosting the negotiations. He said the agreement would allow Lebanese citizens to return to "their fully liberated land" under the exclusive sovereignty of the Lebanese state, in an apparent reference to Hezbollah's influence, which is backed by Iran.
Hezbollah, however, strongly rejected the talks. Hassan Fadallah, a member of the group's parliamentary bloc, condemned direct negotiations with Israel and urged the Lebanese government to reverse its decisions. Speaking to the pro-Hezbollah Al-Mayadeen television channel, he said anyone who "shakes hands with the enemy is a criminal like them."
Rubio said both Lebanese and Israeli citizens had endured decades of conflict and deserved to live in peace and security, while cautioning that achieving lasting progress would require considerable further work.


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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 27 June 2026

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June 26Jun 26

Small Plane Crashes Into Beijing’s Tallest Skyscraper

China

Small Plane Crashes Into Beijing’s Tallest Skyscraper

A small aircraft crashed into Beijing's tallest skyscraper on Friday afternoon, prompting a large emergency response in the Chinese capital and raising questions about how the incident occurred in one of the world's most tightly controlled airspaces.

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Videos shared on social media showed debris falling from the 109-story CITIC Tower, commonly known as China Zun, after the apparent impact. Footage also appeared to show the aircraft's tail section on the ground near the building, along with a taxi that had a shattered window.

A CNN journalist at the scene reported that people were evacuated from the skyscraper and gathered outside near the entrance as emergency crews responded. Fire engines, police vehicles and an ambulance were seen around the building.
Emergency Response
Authorities had not immediately released details about casualties, the cause of the crash or the extent of the damage. CNN said it had contacted Chinese authorities as well as a telephone number listed for the aircraft's owner but had not received information about the incident.
The CITIC Tower, completed in 2018, is the tallest building in Beijing and serves as a major commercial office tower in the city's central business district.
Aircraft Identified
Images circulating online that appeared to show the aircraft's registration suggested it was a domestically built Sunward SA 60L Aurora, a light sport aircraft owned by a local general aviation company.
Unverified flight data posted online from Flightradar24 appeared to indicate the aircraft had followed a highly irregular flight path before the crash. The flight information has not been independently confirmed.
Questions Over Airspace Security
The crash is likely to attract particular attention because of Beijing's heavily restricted airspace.
Since May 1, authorities have imposed sweeping regulations that effectively prohibit drone operations across the capital without prior government approval. Under the rules, residents cannot buy, rent or operate drones within Beijing's extensive municipal area unless they have official authorization.
The restrictions reflect the city's broader security measures, particularly around sensitive government and commercial areas. It remains unclear how the aircraft came to strike the skyscraper or whether it had authorization to operate in the area.
Officials have not yet provided further details, and the circumstances surrounding the crash remain under investigation.


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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 26 June 2026

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June 26Jun 26

Volkswagen Plans Up to 100,000 Job Cuts

Report

Volkswagen Plans Up to 100,000 Job Cuts

Volkswagen is preparing a sweeping restructuring that could eliminate up to 100,000 jobs worldwide over the next several years and eventually end production at four German plants, according to a report by Manager Magazin.

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The report said Volkswagen Chief Executive Oliver Blume plans to significantly reduce the group's workforce while cutting investment by around 15% over the next five years. Capital spending would fall to just over €130 billion (US$148 billion), reflecting the company's drive to lower costs as it faces mounting competitive pressures.
A Volkswagen spokesperson declined to comment on what the company described as confidential documents.
"The relevant facts of the matter will be discussed and approved by the relevant bodies. We will not pre-empt this process," the spokesperson said in an emailed statement.
The spokesperson added that the entire Volkswagen Group, including its brands and subsidiaries, must undergo "far-reaching change."
Major Restructuring Plans
According to Manager Magazin, Blume and Chief Financial Officer Arno Antlitz are planning a fundamental overhaul of the company.
The magazine, citing sources, reported that Volkswagen's core VW brand and its parts-manufacturing operations would be separated from the current group structure and reorganised into standalone entities.
The restructuring would also involve a gradual shutdown of production at four German factories. The report said vehicle manufacturing would end at Volkswagen's plants in Hanover, Zwickau and Emden, as well as Audi's facility in Neckarsulm, once the models currently built there reach the end of their production cycles.
Cost-Cutting Drive Intensifies
Blume has previously pledged to deepen Volkswagen's cost-cutting efforts beyond the 50,000 job reductions already under way.
Although Volkswagen reached an agreement with labour unions in 2024 that ruled out plant closures in Germany during the current decade, under-utilised factories have remained under scrutiny as the company seeks to improve efficiency.
Industry Under Pressure
Volkswagen, along with other European automakers, is grappling with a combination of challenges, including tariffs, growing competition from Chinese manufacturers and the costly transition to electric vehicles.
The reported restructuring plans underscore the scale of the changes facing Europe's largest carmaker as it attempts to strengthen its competitiveness in a rapidly evolving global automotive market.


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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 26 June 2026

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June 26Jun 26

Nato Allies Warn of Possible Russian Baltic Provocation

Russia

Nato Allies Warn of Possible Russian Baltic Provocation

Two NATO countries on the alliance's eastern flank have warned that Russia may be preparing a limited military provocation against the Baltic states or Poland in what they believe could be an attempt to test NATO's unity rather than launch a full-scale attack.

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The warnings come as Russia faces mounting pressure from Ukraine's expanding long-range strike campaign, which has increasingly reached targets near Moscow and St. Petersburg. Western officials fear the Kremlin could seek alternative ways to shift the course of the war as its offensive in Ukraine continues to lose momentum.
On Monday, Latvia's intelligence service said it had identified signs that Russia was preparing military provocations against the Baltic states or Poland. Officials stressed they did not believe Moscow had the capability to open a second conventional front but warned of possible hybrid operations.
Intelligence warnings emerge
A senior political source from another NATO country offered a similar assessment, saying intelligence suggested Russian President Vladimir Putin was planning "something against the Baltic states." The source said Moscow could seek to test U.S. willingness to defend Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania, some of the alliance's smallest members, as Russia struggles to achieve its objectives in Ukraine.
The warnings were not accompanied by the detailed intelligence disclosures seen before Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, when Western agencies publicly outlined Moscow's military preparations.
Fears of hybrid attacks
Latvian intelligence said Russia was more likely to carry out hybrid operations than launch a conventional assault.
According to the agency, these could include missile or drone attacks, or other limited actions intended to signal that continued Western support for Ukraine could bring direct consequences for NATO countries bordering Russia.
Security analysts say the reports reflect growing concern that the Kremlin could broaden tensions beyond Ukraine if battlefield progress continues to stall.
Keir Giles, a Russia specialist at Chatham House, said Moscow would likely seek opportunities to disrupt the current trajectory of the conflict through "horizontal escalation" by extending pressure to other countries.
Ukraine steps up pressure
Russia's vulnerabilities have also become more visible in recent days. This week, drone relay stations in Belarus reportedly stopped operating after Ukraine threatened to target them. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had warned Belarus that the equipment was supporting Russian attacks on Ukraine.
One Telegram channel claimed authorities in Belarus's Brest and Gomel regions ordered mobile operators to dismantle the relay equipment, citing interference with grouse nesting areas.
Ukraine has steadily expanded its domestically developed long-range strike capability, enabling attacks up to 2,000 kilometres inside Russia. Last week, nearly 200 Ukrainian drones struck multiple locations around Moscow, including an oil refinery, leaving parts of the capital covered in falling oil residue.
A Western military source said there was concern Russia could respond unpredictably if Putin felt increasing pressure as the conflict reached major Russian cities.
"I cannot lie, that is a period of danger," the source said.
NATO monitors escalation risks
The latest concerns come ahead of NATO's annual summit in Ankara, Turkey, amid continued questions over the United States' long-term commitment to the alliance. On Wednesday, U.S. President Donald Trump said he was disappointed that European allies had not permitted American aircraft to use their bases for strikes against Iran.
Since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, European countries have accused Moscow of carrying out repeated sabotage and hybrid operations. These have included firebombs hidden in DHL parcels sent through the United Kingdom, Poland and Germany during 2024.
Last September, 19 Russian decoy drones entered Polish airspace, prompting NATO to scramble fighter jets while authorities advised residents in three eastern provinces to seek shelter.
Western governments voiced similar concerns in late 2022 after Russian setbacks in Ukraine's Kharkiv region raised fears that Moscow might consider using nuclear weapons. However, no evidence emerged of preparations for such a move, and the frontline later stabilised.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 26 June 2026

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June 26Jun 26

British Woman Charged in Dubai Faces Firing Squad

Middle East

British Woman Charged in Dubai Faces Firing Squad

A British TikTok influencer is facing a possible firing squad if convicted of murder in Dubai after allegedly stabbing a man to death in what she claims was an act of self-defence, according to an advocacy group supporting her case.

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Brooke George, 23, a former department store worker from Kent, has been charged with the premeditated murder of a 26-year-old man she met through Facebook, according to Detained in Dubai (DiD). The advocacy group says she could face execution by firing squad if found guilty under UAE law.
Online Romance Ends in Tragedy
According to DiD, George travelled to Dubai after developing an online relationship with the man. During her first week-long visit, she described the trip as "the time of my life," despite later raising concerns about a professional photo shoot she said had been arranged during her stay.
On June 1, George shared photos and videos from Dubai on Instagram with the caption: "God has a plan. Trust it, Live it, Enjoy it."
DiD said the relationship deteriorated during her second visit. The group, citing George's account, said the man became increasingly controlling and abusive. George allegedly told friends that "things weren't right" and claimed she discovered disturbing videos on his computer.
The group also said George became alarmed after learning that only a one-way ticket had been booked for her return journey, prompting her to make plans to leave the country.
Self-Defence Claim
DiD said the incident occurred after the pair returned from an Irish bar, where the man had been drinking. George alleges he assaulted her in the car and continued the attack after they reached his apartment.
Her family said she called them in distress after being struck by the man, and they arranged a flight back to Britain. According to DiD, when George returned to collect her belongings and passport, she found her possessions scattered around the apartment.
The group said George pleaded for the return of her passport before she was punched in the face and attacked again. She claims she feared for her life and grabbed a nearby kitchen knife, fatally stabbing the man in self-defence.
George's mother, Thereza George, said her daughter had appeared quieter than usual the day before the incident but had not explained why. After the alleged stabbing, she said Brooke was crying uncontrollably and had a badly swollen eye.


Picture courtesy of Brooke George's Instagram
Allegations Over Detention
George was arrested in the early hours of June 22 and is being held at Bur Dubai police station.
Detained in Dubai alleges she was forced to strip naked in front of male police officers without female officers present. The group also claims she has not been allowed to contact the British embassy and was required to give statements without legal representation.
Dubai Police and the UAE Embassy did not immediately respond to a request from CBS News for comment on the allegations.
A spokesperson for the UK's Foreign Office said it was in contact with the detained British woman, supporting her family and liaising with local authorities.
Calls for Fair Trial
DiD chief executive Radha Stirling said the case raises concerns about violence against women, the right to self-defence, due process and the treatment of British nationals detained overseas.
The organisation is calling for George to receive a fair trial and be released on bail while the investigation continues.
Stirling also said an increasing number of women, including influencers, models and travellers, have been lured to Dubai with promises of luxury lifestyles, paid work, holidays or romantic relationships before later alleging exploitation, coercion, violence or degrading treatment.
The group pointed to previous cases involving foreign women, including Irish national Tori Towey, who was detained in 2024 after attempting to flee alleged domestic abuse.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 26 June 2026

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webfact

June 26Jun 26