Greece
Greek Crete and Turkish Wildfires Surge
Record‑breaking heatwaves have sparked severe wildfires on Greece’s Crete Island and western Turkey. Authorities launched mass evacuations and mobilized international firefighting support as flames spread, fanned by strong winds and prolonged drought. The fires highlight the mounting climate vulnerabilities of Mediterranean communities.
USA
President Donald Trump Signs ‘Big Beautiful Bill’ into Law
On July 4, President Donald Trump ceremonially signed his so‑called “Big Beautiful Bill” into law after a razor‑thin House vote (218–214). The legislation enacts sweeping tax cuts, slashes Medicaid and welfare, and allocates $150 billion to ICE over four years. It also rewrites emissions credit rules, potentially impacting Tesla profits. The bill cements President Trump’s control over GOP policymaking and paves the way for further aggressive executive action.
Elephant Tragedy in Zambia
On a Zambian safari, a female elephant, reportedly with a calf, charged and fatally trampled two tourists; a UK woman and her New Zealand friend. The incident, captured by wildlife authorities, has renewed debate over safety protocols in wildlife tourism.
USA
Blake vs. Candace
Blake Lively’s legal team has issued subpoenas to conservative commentator Candace Owens, celebrity blogger Perez Hilton, and YouTuber Andy Signore. These subpoenas are part of Lively’s ongoing lawsuit against ‘It Ends With Us’ co-star and director Justin Baldoni, whom she accuses of sexual harassment, and of orchestrating a coordinated online smear campaign using media personalities to discredit her. The legal filings seek communications, texts, emails, social media DMs, that might reveal collusion, coordination, or amplification of negative narratives against Lively.
Russia
Russia Launches Record Drone and Missile Assault on Kyiv
In the largest aerial attack since the war began, Russia unleashed 550 drones and missiles on Ukraine’s capital, injuring dozens and damaging infrastructure. Ukrainian interceptor drones shot down many attackers. President Zelensky has demanded fast-track production of defensive systems. This bombardment came just days after U.S. weapons aid to Kyiv was slowed, marking a dangerous escalation.
Russia
Russia Recognizes Taliban Government
Russia officially recognized the Taliban-led government in Afghanistan, becoming the first major power to do so. Diplomatic ties have deepened, but analysts stress that this shift won’t bring international financial investment, highlighting Kabul’s continued isolation despite formal recognition
USA
Candace Owens Responds
Owens, learning about the subpoena only via TMZ, says she has ‘not been officially served’ yet. In a 43‑minute YouTube video, she:
Denies any payment or coordination with Baldoni’s team.
Shares that she’s only mentioned Lively twice in private texts (in 2019 and August 2024) - far too few to support claims of a smear campaign.
Says bluntly: “I don’t dance for money” and that her critical commentary is her independent opinion, not orchestrated.
Italy
Gas Station Explosion in Rome
A devastating explosion at a gas station on Rome’s outskirts injured over 25, including emergency responders. Smoke billowed across the morning sky, and a temporary area lockdown ensued. Authorities are investigating possible causes, including mechanical failure or stored propane leaks.
Iran
U.N. Withdraws Nuclear Inspectors from Iran
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) abruptly pulled its inspectors out of Iran following safety concerns after a recent Israeli military strike and escalating tensions. Inspectors had been confined in Tehran since June 13 and were unable to access nuclear sites. Iran halted cooperation under a new law, threatening to exit the Non‑Proliferation Treaty. The absence of on‑site oversight has raised alarms over unmonitored nuclear development, prompting calls in Washington and Europe for renewed diplomacy and possibly reimposing sanctions.
South America
Suriname Set to Elect First Female President
In a historic election, Suriname’s National Assembly is poised to appoint Jennifer Geerlings‑Simons, 71, as the country’s first female president. The move comes amid the discovery of offshore oil reserves, projected to dramatically transform the nation’s economy and regional influence.
Bali
Ferry Disaster in Bali
A ferry carrying 65 passengers sank near Bali, Indonesia. So far, 35 people have been rescued, six confirmed dead, and dozens remain missing. Rescue teams continue search efforts amid mounting fears of further casualties from capsizing due to rough seas or overcrowding.
