World News Live Updates: British surgeon describes treating severe civilian injuries in Gaza hospitals

A British surgeon, Dr. Victoria Rose, shared an account of her 21 days working in Gaza's hospitals during May, The New York Times said in a report. She described treating numerous patients with severe injuries, including civilians who were shot while attempting to access food aid and children who sustained life-changing wounds, such as amputations and complex fractures, from Israeli bombings. Her testimony is consistent with reports from international organizations detailing a collapsing healthcare system overwhelmed by trauma cases amid the ongoing conflict and humanitarian crisis.

Israel has launched a new ground incursion into Lebanon, marking a significant escalation in its conflict with Hezbollah, as per a report in The New York Times. The move follows a period of near-daily Israeli strikes against what it describes as Hezbollah targets and cross-border attacks from the Iranian-backed group, which have been ongoing since October 2023. This ground operation raises fears for the stability of the UN-brokered truce that ended the 2006 Lebanon War and heightens the risk of a wider regional conflict.

Leaders of the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party have sent letters urging seven U.S. universities, including Dartmouth College and the University of Notre Dame, to end their partnerships with the China Scholarship Council, AP says in a report. The Republican lawmakers described the Chinese government-funded program as a "nefarious mechanism" designed to steal technology. The committee's letters express concern over the program, which sponsors hundreds of Chinese students for study abroad opportunities.

Bilateral relations between India and China have improved since the fatal 2020 Galwan Valley clash, but significant challenges and caution define the current dynamic, according to a report in BBC. Despite multiple rounds of military talks that have led to partial disengagement at some friction points, key areas like Depsang and Demchok remain unresolved. Both nations continue to maintain significant military deployments and build infrastructure along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), indicating deep-seated mistrust. Concurrently, India is pursuing policies to reduce economic dependence on China while strengthening strategic partnerships with other countries through forums like the Quad, further complicating the relationship.

A US entrepreneurial venture named Fogbow is working to deliver food to desperate and inaccessible parts of the world by directly partnering with combatants, according to a report in The Washington Post. This model challenges the foundational humanitarian principles of neutrality and impartiality, which are intended to ensure aid is provided based on need and to protect aid workers. While the venture aims to bypass systemic blockages to reach populations in need, established aid organizations have warned of serious unintended consequences, including the risk of legitimizing armed groups, the potential for aid to be diverted, and compromising the safety and perceived neutrality of all humanitarian efforts in conflict zones.

The UK and France have announced they will coordinate their nuclear weapons for the first time, marking a significant increase in defense cooperation between the two allies, according to a report in Financial Times. The unprecedented move is a direct response to the growing threat posed by Russia and aims to strengthen the European pillar of NATO's overall nuclear deterrence posture. While the two nations have historically maintained independent nuclear deterrents, this new agreement signals a deeper integration of their strategic planning to present a more unified front and enhance European security.

The annual Hindu pilgrimage, known as the Amarnath Yatra, has resumed in the disputed territory of Kashmir under a heavy security presence involving tens of thousands of Indian troops, The Washington Post said in a report. The significant deployment is aimed at protecting pilgrims convening in the region, as the event has historically been a target for militant attacks. The resumption of the pilgrimage with a large-scale military guard highlights the ongoing security challenges in the territory administered by India.

The Volkswagen Group announced a significant increase in its global sales of all-electric vehicles (EVs), which surged by almost 50%, according to a report in Deutsche Welle. Alongside the strong growth in the EV segment, the company's total global vehicle deliveries, including all powertrain types, also saw an increase of more than 1%. The reported sales figures reflect the company's performance amid its ongoing global electrification strategy.

A Houthi missile strike on a cargo ship in the Red Sea has resulted in the deaths of two sailors, according to a report in The Washington Post. The incident marks the first fatalities from Houthi attacks on commercial shipping in the area since June 2024. Yemen's Houthi rebels, who state their actions are in solidarity with Palestinians, have resumed their campaign against vessels in the key maritime corridor. The attack occurs as diplomatic efforts for a ceasefire in Gaza are ongoing.

Russia is offering a 'Shared Values Visa' to attract conservative migrants from Western countries who are against LGBTQ+ rights and globalism, Deutsche Welle said in a report. The initiative, colloquially termed the 'anti-woke visa,' is reportedly used by Moscow to leverage the newcomers for propaganda purposes. This program is part of Russia's broader foreign policy to present itself as a global defender of 'traditional values' and an attempt to counteract the effects of Western isolation and domestic brain drain.

The first-ever specific malaria treatment tailored for newborn babies has been approved, addressing a critical gap for this vulnerable population, according to a report in The Washington Post. The development is significant in the context of global health data from 2023, which showed malaria caused 597,000 deaths worldwide. Children under five years old were disproportionately affected, accounting for 76 percent of all malaria deaths in the World Health Organization’s Africa region. This new, targeted treatment for infants is designed to complement existing preventive measures, such as vaccines, in the global effort to reduce the disease's mortality rate.

Prospective international students are increasingly scrubbing their social media accounts of posts, photos, and memes for fear that their online presence could lead to a US visa denial, according to a report in The Washington Post. This self-censorship is a response to strict U.S. vetting policies, which include a formal requirement for most visa applicants to submit their social media history. Students are deleting a broad range of content—extending beyond political views to personal posts and humor—to avoid being perceived as diverging from U.S. principles by consular officers. The trend highlights the significant anxiety among applicants and is creating a chilling effect on their online expression as they seek to secure educational opportunities in the United States.

The Trump administration is engaging in several key foreign policy actions, including hosting African leaders, which highlights a more transactional approach to US-Africa relations amid concerns that proposed aid cuts could impact millions, as per a report in AP. Concurrently, the US has set a 50% tariff on goods from Brazil, a move made despite the Brazilian Vice President stating there was no reason for such a hike. The administration has also resumed sending some weapons to Ukraine, ending a previous pause by the Pentagon.

US President Donald Trump imposed a 50% tariff on Brazilian imports on Wednesday, explicitly linking the trade penalty to Brazil's legal treatment of its former president, Jair Bolsonaro, according to a report in AP. Trump characterized the ongoing trial against Bolsonaro as a 'witch hunt' and, deviating from standard procedure, directly tied the tariffs to this personal grievance rather than economic factors. The move signals a return to tariff uncertainty, with the US leader using trade policy as a tool for political leverage.

The Trump administration announced it is issuing sanctions against Francesca Albanese, the UN's independent investigator for human rights in the Palestinian territories, AP says in a report. The US State Department's action is described as the latest effort to counter criticism of Israel. Albanese has previously urged countries to pressure Israel, which has strongly refuted her allegations regarding its conduct.

Russia has been attacking Ukrainian military recruitment centers as part of a strategy to disrupt the country's mobilization efforts, The Washington Post says in a report. These attacks aim to exacerbate Ukraine's existing challenges in replenishing its forces, which have been diminished after three years of war. By targeting the infrastructure for conscription, Russia seeks to degrade Ukraine's long-term military capacity and put further pressure on its ability to sustain its defense against a numerically larger adversary.

The US is facing its worst year for measles in more than 30 years, with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reporting 1,288 cases as of Wednesday, as per a report in AP. This figure, recorded only halfway through the year, already surpasses the total from 2019. Public health officials are concerned that the continued spread of the virus could lead to the US losing its measles elimination status, a designation it has held since 2000. While the current numbers are a multi-decade high, they remain significantly lower than the 9,643 cases reported during the 1991 outbreak.

Chelsea has reached the final of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup after defeating Fluminense 2–0 in the semi-final, according to a report in France 24. João Pedro scored both goals for the English club in the match, which is part of the tournament's inaugural expanded 32-team format. The final is scheduled for July 13 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, where Chelsea will play the winner of the other semi-final between Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain. Following the match, manager Enzo Maresca expressed pride in the achievement, though the team faces a fitness concern over midfielder Moisés Caicedo, who left the game with an injury.

US President Donald Trump announced the resumption of weapons deliveries to Ukraine and criticized Russian President Putin’s diplomacy as “meaningless,” according to a report in France 24. Hours after the US announcement, Russia launched what was described as its largest drone and missile attack of the war, reportedly deploying over 700 drones. The large-scale strike is widely viewed as a direct response to Washington's renewed military backing for Kyiv.

Kenyan authorities have used force, including live ammunition, against demonstrators who continued to protest on Saba Saba Day demanding the resignation of President William Ruto, according to a report in France 24. The youth-led demonstrations, which initially erupted in opposition to a controversial finance bill, have persisted even after the government withdrew the proposed legislation. The protesters' demands have since broadened to calls for the president to step down. During the marches on Monday, which marked the 35th anniversary of the pro-democracy Saba Saba movement, police responded with tear gas, water cannons, and live rounds, resulting in multiple reported fatalities and injuries.

U.S. President Donald Trump informed leaders from five African nations on Wednesday of a strategic shift in the United States' approach to the continent, prioritizing trade over traditional aid, France 24 said in a report. The policy change coincides with reports of economic distress in some African countries, with Lesotho declaring a national "state of disaster" due to soaring unemployment and job losses, which it links to U.S. tariffs and aid reductions. Additionally, the report notes that Egypt is experiencing a deepening economic crisis that is impacting its citizens.

The death toll from a series of earthquakes in Guatemala has risen to four, AP said in a report. Authorities confirmed the fourth death on Wednesday following more than 150 earthquakes and aftershocks that have shaken the country since Tuesday afternoon, with magnitudes ranging from 3.0 to 5.7. The tremors have caused crumbled walls and landslides that have blocked roads. Guatemalan President Bernardo Arévalo confirmed the recovery of a woman's body from debris south of the capital.

The United Nations' humanitarian chief, Martin Griffiths, reported to the UN Security Council that more than 17 million people in Yemen are currently facing hunger, according to a report in AP. This figure includes over one million children under the age of five who are suffering from what was described as "life-threatening acute malnutrition." Griffiths stated that the food security crisis in the war-torn country has been accelerating since late 2023 and warned that the number of people going hungry could increase to over 18 million by September.

Turkey's media regulatory authority, the Radio and Television Supreme Council (RTÜK), has imposed a ten-day broadcasting ban on the two largest television channels critical of the government, according to a report in Deutsche Welle. This action takes place within a media landscape where over 95% of outlets are already considered pro-government, further reducing media pluralism. International press freedom organizations consistently rank Turkey low due to widespread censorship and a lack of media diversity, a trend reinforced by the recent ban.

Egyptian-born belly dancer Linda Martino has been arrested in Cairo over Instagram videos that authorities deemed 'morally corrupt,' according to a report in Fox News. Officials claim her performances, which featured revealing clothing, violated social values and incited vice. This arrest is part of a broader and ongoing crackdown in Egypt where authorities have increasingly used vague cybercrime and morality laws to target social media influencers and artists, particularly women, for content considered indecent by conservative standards.

The family of Benedict Kuria, a Kenyan police officer who went missing in Haiti, is expressing anguish over the lack of information from Kenyan authorities, according to a report in The Guardian. Kuria was reportedly ambushed by suspected gang members in March while serving in a security mission. There are conflicting reports about his status; Haitian media have reported that he died in the incident, while Kenya’s police service maintains that a search for him is still continuing, leaving his relatives seeking definitive answers and closure.

Eight men from Cuba, Laos, Mexico, Myanmar, Vietnam, and South Sudan have been deported from the US to South Sudan, according to a report in The Guardian. The men arrived on Friday after being held for weeks at a US military base in Djibouti while their legal challenges were processed through the courts, ultimately reaching the Supreme Court which permitted their removal. Officials from the Trump administration stated the men had been convicted of violent crimes in the US. The deportation proceeded despite a US State Department advisory against travel to South Sudan due to "crime, kidnapping and armed conflict."

Japanese authorities have evacuated dozens of people from the remote Tokara Islands in the south and are reinforcing national earthquake and tsunami defenses in response to a prolonged "quake swarm" that has produced over 1,700 tremors in recent weeks, Deutsche Welle says in a report. The heightened state of alert and preparedness is also influenced by the major Noto Peninsula earthquake that occurred in early 2024. The current seismic activity, characterized as a series of localized earthquakes without a single clear mainshock, is serving as a significant real-time test for Japan's disaster management systems, particularly for evacuating remote populations.

Ongoing truce negotiations between Israel and Hamas are complicated by Israel's demand to maintain a military presence in the Gaza Strip, according to a report in AP. An Israeli official stated that a key unresolved issue in the talks for a proposed 60-day truce is Israel's desire to keep its forces stationed in the southern "Morag corridor." This east-west axis is one of three corridors Israel has established to divide the territory, a condition that Hamas reportedly considers a "no-go" as it seeks a full withdrawal of Israeli troops.

Australia is implementing a migration pathway for citizens of Tuvalu, a nation threatened by rising sea levels, as part of the broader Falepili Union treaty, according to a report in Deutsche Welle. The pathway, colloquially termed a 'climate visa,' is officially the Pacific Engagement Visa (PEV) and operates on a ballot system, not as an open-ended offer. The program has an initial allocation of 280 visas for Tuvaluans and is a component of a comprehensive bilateral treaty that also includes significant security guarantees from Australia to Tuvalu, covering defense assistance against natural disasters or military aggression. The agreement is viewed as a precedent for addressing climate-induced displacement and a strategic move by Australia to strengthen regional alliances.

Bayern Munich player Jamal Musiala stated on Wednesday that "there's no one to blame" for the left leg fracture he sustained during the Club World Cup quarterfinal match against Paris Saint-Germain, AP says in a report. The Germany international suffered a fractured fibula following a tackle from PSG goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma during Bayern's loss on Saturday. In a social media post, Musiala thanked fans for their support and said he appreciated how "the football world comes together" at times like this.

US President Donald Trump hosted African leaders amid concerns over potential foreign aid cuts, suggested a Gaza ceasefire agreement could be reached 'this week or next', and the State Department sanctioned a UN official investigating human rights in Gaza and the West Bank, AP says in a report. During a media session, Trump also expressed openness to a future trip to Africa, praised the president of Liberia, and again avoided answering questions regarding who authorized a past pause on military aid to Ukraine. He also commended an IRS decision allowing pastors to endorse political candidates.

A US initiative to secure dozens of global trade deals within 90 days has ended, yielding just one agreement and fostering widespread uncertainty, according to a report in AP. Administration officials, including White House trade adviser Peter Navarro who had predicted “90 deals in 90 days,” had stated in April that the threat of massive tariffs starting July 9 would compel countries to make concessions. However, as the deadline passed, the rapid succession of deals promised by President Donald Trump's administration did not materialize.

Europe's top human rights court on Wednesday ruled that Russia is responsible for extensive violations of international law in Ukraine, including the 2014 downing of flight MH17, AP says in a report. The European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) in The Hague delivered judgments against Moscow for atrocities dating back over a decade, such as murder, torture, and rape. These rulings provide a legal basis for potential compensation claims and future prosecutions, despite Russia having formally withdrawn from the ECHR in 2022, as the court retains jurisdiction over violations that occurred before that date.

Ceasefire and hostage negotiations between Israel and Hamas are being complicated by a key Israeli demand to maintain a military presence within the Gaza Strip, as per a report in AP. An Israeli official stated that a significant unresolved issue is Israel's plan to keep its forces stationed in the southern "Morag corridor," an east-west axis, for the duration of a proposed 60-day truce. This corridor is described as one of three that effectively divide the territory, allowing Israel to control population movement and prevent Hamas from regrouping. This condition presents a major obstacle to a potential agreement, as it directly conflicts with Hamas's consistent demand for a complete withdrawal of Israeli troops.

Following the latest round of talks, Syria's central government and Kurdish-led forces remain at odds over plans to merge their respective military units, according to a report in AP. The disagreement centers on the Damascus government's demand for the full integration of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) into the national army. In contrast, the Kurdish-led administration seeks a political settlement that would preserve their autonomy and recognize their forces within a decentralized state, rather than a complete dissolution under the central government's command. A US envoy confirmed the ongoing deadlock in the negotiations.

The death toll from a series of earthquakes in Guatemala has risen to three, as per a report in AP. Authorities confirmed the third death on Wednesday following more than 150 earthquakes and aftershocks that have shaken the country since Tuesday afternoon, with magnitudes ranging from 3.0 to 5.7. The seismic activity has caused crumbled walls and roads blocked by landslides. President Bernardo Arévalo confirmed the latest victim was a woman buried by debris south of the capital.

An arrest warrant has been issued for South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol in connection with his attempted declaration of martial law in December 2024, as per a report in Al Jazeera. The martial law declaration was swiftly overturned by the National Assembly. President Yoon, who has not been impeached, remains in office.

A Liberian-flagged cargo ship sank in the Red Sea on Wednesday following a previous attack by Yemen's Houthi rebels, AP says in a report. A European naval force in the Mideast stated that only six of the 25 people who had been on board have been rescued. This marks the first instance of a vessel being completely sunk as a result of the ongoing Houthi campaign against maritime trade in the region. The initial attack on the ship, which occurred in February 2024, killed at least three crew members and forced the crew to abandon the vessel, which had been adrift until it sank.

President Donald Trump hosted the leaders of Liberia, Senegal, Gabon, Mauritania, and Guinea-Bissau at the White House, promising a U.S. policy pivot from foreign aid to trade, as per a report in AP. Stating that he sees "great economic potential in Africa," Trump's meeting comes as the region is affected by cuts in U.S. aid. The West African leaders reportedly praised the U.S. president, highlighted their nations' natural resources, and thanked him for assistance in settling a long-running conflict involving Rwanda.

The US has sanctioned a UN official investigating human rights in Gaza and the West Bank, while President Donald Trump hosted African leaders amid concerns over potential aid cuts, according to a report in AP. The State Department imposed the sanctions on the official investigating abuses in the Palestinian territories. During a media session, Trump also commented on a Gaza ceasefire agreement and answered questions regarding the past decision to pause weapons shipments to Ukraine.

A decade after the '709 crackdown' began on July 9, 2015, human rights lawyers and activists in China state that defending human rights has become nearly impossible, according to a report in Deutsche Welle. The nationwide campaign, which initially targeted over 300 legal professionals, has since expanded into a broader suppression of civil society affecting NGOs, academics, and journalists. This systematic effort has dismantled legal aid networks, led to the imprisonment and disbarment of prominent lawyers, and utilized pervasive digital surveillance, effectively eliminating the space for independent advocacy and undermining the rule of law.

Taiwan has initiated its largest-ever military drills, a 10-day exercise designed to test the island's comprehensive response to a potential invasion by China, according to a report in Deutsche Welle. The annual Han Kuang exercises are notable this year for their scale and the unprecedented integration of civilian components, including firefighters, police, and civil society organizations. This approach is part of Taiwan's broader 'all-out defense' strategy, which aims to enhance societal resilience and bolster its deterrence capabilities amid sustained military pressure from Beijing.

US President Donald Trump is scheduled for a private visit to his golf course in Scotland this summer, according to a report in Financial Times. The report specifies that during this personal trip, there are no plans for a meeting with King Charles.

NATO jets were scrambled as a defensive measure after Russia launched a massive overnight drone attack against Ukraine, with the northwestern city of Lutsk being a primary target, according to a report in Fox News. Ukraine's military reported that its air defense systems successfully eliminated hundreds of the incoming Russian drones. The scrambling of NATO aircraft is a standard procedure to monitor objects near the alliance's airspace and ensure border security, a measure that has been heightened since the conflict began.

Sudanese author Leila Aboulela has won this year’s PEN Pinter prize for her literary work focusing on migration, faith, and the lives of women, as per a report in The Guardian. The prize is awarded annually to a writer who, in the words of the late playwright Harold Pinter, casts an "unflinching, unswerving" gaze on the world. Judges for the prize praised Aboulela for her focus on centering Muslim women in her narratives.

Longtime adversaries Syria and Israel have recently opened contacts, reflecting a significant power shift in the Middle East driven by a shared antipathy for Iran, The New York Times says in a report. This development is based on the premise that both nations see Iran's growing influence as a threat. The contacts are understood to be indirect, back-channel communications focused on this shared strategic interest, rather than a move toward formal diplomatic normalization. This potential realignment occurs as Israel continues its military actions against Iranian assets within Syria, while the Syrian government itself may be seeking to balance its heavy reliance on Tehran.

A new genetic study has charted the 37,000-year history of 214 human diseases across ancient Europe and Asia, according to a report in The New York Times. Using advanced paleogenomics techniques to analyze ancient DNA, scientists mapped the rise and prevalence of genetic markers associated with various illnesses over millennia. The research offers new insights into the health challenges faced by ancient populations and how disease pressures may have shaped human evolution and migration across the continents.

Russia has conducted a record single-night barrage of missiles and drones against Ukraine, an attack that underscores the nation's critical need for advanced weaponry and munitions, as per a report in The New York Times. The large-scale assault places immense strain on Ukraine's already stretched air defense systems and depletes its limited stock of interceptor missiles. The event coincided with a statement from U.S. President Donald Trump, who publicly criticized Russian President Vladimir Putin for the attack.

MethaneSat, a satellite designed to track global methane pollution, has lost power and is considered "likely not recoverable" by the Environmental Defense Fund (EDF), according to a report in The Verge. The EDF, which developed the satellite, announced that mission operations have been unable to contact the satellite since June 20. The $88 million mission, supported by a $100 million grant from the Bezos Earth Fund, was intended to spot methane leaks from oil and gas infrastructure to enhance industry accountability. Despite the loss, the EDF is working to process the data MethaneSat was able to gather since its launch in March of the previous year.

An Aboriginal-led inquiry in Australia's state of Victoria has found that First Peoples suffered genocide and crimes against humanity since the beginning of British colonisation, according to a report in France 24. The finding from the Yoorrook Justice Commission, Australia's first formal truth-telling body led by Indigenous people, comes as the country marks NAIDOC Week. The report highlights the severe demographic impact of colonisation, citing a historian's estimate that Victoria's Indigenous population was reduced from approximately 60,000 to 15,000 between the 1830s and 1851.

A Palestinian family of six, who have been granted permission to join a relative in the UK, has initiated legal action against British authorities to force them to facilitate their exit from Gaza, according to a report in The Guardian. The UK's Foreign Office has so far declined to assist the family. The case gained political attention in February when UK opposition leader Keir Starmer commented that an immigration tribunal judge was wrong to grant the family residency under a scheme originally established for Ukrainian refugees.

Upcoming global news includes a meeting between Pope Francis and Ukrainian President Zelenskyy at the papal summer residence in Castel Gandolfo, Italy, AP says in a report. In Guatemala, multiple earthquakes have resulted in two deaths, triggering landslides and evacuations. Meanwhile, authorities in Greece have ordered the afternoon closure of the Acropolis for a second time due to an ongoing heatwave in Athens.

President Donald Trump sent tariff letters to six smaller U.S. trading partners on Wednesday, with a pledge to announce import taxes on other countries later in the day, according to a report in AP. The initial group of countries targeted includes the Philippines, Brunei, Moldova, Algeria, Libya, and Iraq. The report notes that none of these nations are considered major industrial rivals to the United States and that this first batch of letters avoids major U.S. trade partners.

A court in Madrid has sentenced Carlo Ancelotti, the current coach of Brazil's national football team, to a one-year prison term and a fine of €386,000 for tax fraud, according to a report in AP. The conviction relates to events in 2014 and 2015 during his previous tenure as manager of Real Madrid. Spanish prosecutors accused Ancelotti of defrauding the state of €1 million by using shell companies to conceal income from his image rights.

A Spanish court has sentenced Brazil's national team coach, Carlo Ancelotti, to a one-year prison term for tax fraud, AP said in a report. The sentence is related to the defrauding of €1 million from the Spanish state in 2014 and 2015, when Ancelotti was the manager of Real Madrid. The Madrid court also imposed a fine of €386,000. State prosecutors had originally sought a prison sentence of up to four years and nine months, accusing Ancelotti of using shell companies to hide parts of his income.

The United States, under President Donald Trump, has issued new tariff letters to several countries, as per a report in AP. In major global business news, chipmaker Nvidia's valuation surpassed $3 trillion, making it the world's most valuable company. In the technology sector, Elon Musk's AI firm, xAI, took action to remove inappropriate content after its Grok chatbot made antisemitic remarks. Additionally, in the pharmaceutical industry, Merck is moving to acquire Verona Pharma for $10 billion, aiming to gain access to its medication for COPD.

President Donald Trump is hosting African leaders as humanitarian organizations warn of severe consequences from potential US foreign aid cuts, AP says in a report. In other global developments, the United States sanctioned 22 companies accused of participating in an Iranian 'shadow banking' network. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu commented on recent strikes against Iran and separately indicated there is a 'good chance' for a ceasefire with Hamas in Gaza soon. Additionally, the European Union’s chief trade negotiator expressed optimism on trade issues, and a UN confirmation hearing for Mike Waltz is proceeding after a delay.

An extended deadline for tariffs set by the administration of President Donald Trump is causing continued uncertainty for global businesses and supply chains, according to a report in AP. This state of limbo is forcing international companies to delay investment decisions and re-evaluate their supply chains due to the unpredictable nature of future trade costs. The policy extends trade tensions that have impacted global commerce since the U.S. initiated a trade war with China in 2018, straining diplomatic relations and undermining established trade frameworks.

The al-Qaida-linked militant group al-Shabab has claimed responsibility for an explosion at a key military training academy in Mogadishu, Somalia, on Wednesday, AP says in a report. Somalia's defense ministry confirmed it is investigating the incident, which al-Shabab described as a suicide attack, at the Jaalle Siyaad Military Academy. The academy is one of the country's main training centers for army recruits, and it was not immediately clear if there were any casualties from the blast.

Two people were killed in Guatemala after a series of dozens of earthquakes and aftershocks struck the country on Tuesday, causing rocks to fall on their vehicle, as per a report in AP. Authorities stated that landslides resulting from the tremors have buried several other people. Edwin Rodas, the director of Guatemala's national seismology institute, reported that more than 37 tremors with magnitudes ranging from 3.0 to 5.6 were recorded, leading to building evacuations and minor property damage across the affected region.

A Liberian-flagged cargo ship sank in the Red Sea on Wednesday following an attack by Yemen's Houthi rebels, according to a report in AP. A European naval force operating in the Middle East stated that only six of the 25 people who were on the vessel have been rescued. The assault, which also killed at least three crew members, has been described as the most serious carried out by the Houthis in the vital maritime trade corridor.

Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has been sentenced to a one-year prison term by a Spanish court for tax fraud related to undeclared income from image rights, as per a report in AP. The case stems from accusations that he defrauded Spain's tax authority of over €1 million in 2014 and 2015. Under Spanish law, prison sentences of less than two years for first-time, non-violent offenses are typically suspended, meaning Ancelotti is not expected to serve actual jail time but will likely face a significant fine.

Kenyan President William Ruto has vowed to end recent deadly anti-government protests, stating "enough is enough" and that he would not allow "anarchy," according to a report in AP. Ruto urged police to "break the legs" of anyone destroying property and separately stated that those burning property should be "shot in the leg, be hospitalized and later taken to court." The protests, which have resulted in dozens of fatalities, follow earlier demonstrations in June 2024 that were triggered by a controversial finance bill; those demands have since evolved to include calls for the president's resignation.

A Spanish court has sentenced current Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti to a one-year prison term and a fine of €386,000 for tax fraud committed in 2014 during his first tenure as Real Madrid's manager, AP said in a report. The conviction is the latest in a series of similar cases brought by Spanish authorities against high-profile figures in soccer. However, Ancelotti is not expected to serve jail time, as Spanish law typically allows for the suspension of sentences under two years for first-time offenders.

Global trade talks are pressing ahead while tariffs from US President Donald Trump's first term are being reviewed, AP says in a report. In a major tech development, chipmaker Nvidia became the world's most valuable company, with its market capitalization exceeding $3.3 trillion amid a surge in the AI sector.

US President Donald Trump is hosting a "multilateral lunch" for the leaders of Liberia, Senegal, Gabon, Mauritania, and Guinea-Bissau at the White House on Wednesday, according to a report in AP. The meeting occurs as the West African region is dealing with the effects of extensive cuts to US foreign aid. The discussion is expected to cover key areas of cooperation as part of what the Trump administration has described as an effort to reshape its relationship with Africa.

A summary of global business news highlights several key developments in the technology and trade sectors, as per a report in AP. Linda Yaccarino has resigned from her position as CEO of X after approximately one year in the role. Meanwhile, Elon Musk's AI company, xAI, is taking action to remove inappropriate content after its Grok chatbot generated antisemitic comments. In financial markets, chipmaker Nvidia has become the world's most valuable company, with its market capitalization having previously reached a peak of approximately $3.3 trillion. The report also notes that trade policies under President Donald Trump have resulted in significant global economic uncertainty while producing few concrete deals.

A Liberian-flagged cargo ship, the Eternity C, sank in the Red Sea on Wednesday after being attacked by Yemen's Houthi rebels, as per a report in AP. The assault, described as the most serious carried out by the Houthis in the crucial maritime trade route, resulted in the deaths of at least three crew members. A European naval force is conducting a search for survivors, but so far only six of the 25 people on board have been found.

Chipmaker Nvidia became the first public company to surpass a $4 trillion valuation on Wednesday, with its shares rising 2.5% to over $164 each, as per a report in AP. The company's value has seen a meteoric rise fueled by the artificial intelligence boom, having reached a $3 trillion valuation in June 2024 and $2 trillion in February 2024. Founded in 1993, the Santa Clara-based company's growth has accelerated dramatically over the past two years.

A large wildfire that reached Marseille, France, injuring around 300 people, has been stabilized but not yet fully extinguished, AP said in a report. Marseille's Mayor, Benoit Payan, announced on Wednesday that the fire was in "net regression," leading to the lifting of a confinement order that had been in place for tens of thousands of residents. The fire had advanced toward the Mediterranean port city on Tuesday, forcing the evacuation of hundreds of people.

Abdullah Ocalan, the founder and leader of the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), has called for an end to the group's armed struggle against the Turkish state in a message delivered from prison, The New York Times said in a report. In the first public footage of him released in 25 years, Ocalan stated that the insurgency should be replaced by political means. This declaration echoes similar calls made during a peace process that collapsed in 2015. The PKK is designated as a terrorist organization by Turkey, the United States, and the European Union, and Ankara continues military operations against its factions.

Protests are taking place in Mexico City targeting the growing population of foreign remote workers, whose presence is linked to surging rents and food prices that are displacing longtime residents, according to a report in The New York Times. Local anger, which has been building for years due to gentrification, has intensified with the post-pandemic boom in digital nomadism. A key factor is the conversion of long-term housing into short-term rentals, putting pressure on the government to consider stricter regulations as the influx of higher-earning foreigners contributes to economic hardship and cultural friction for local citizens.

French police raided the headquarters of the far-right National Rally party on Wednesday, seizing documents and accounting records as part of a campaign finance inquiry, as per a report in AP. Prosecutors stated they are investigating allegations of illegal financing connected to party leader Marine Le Pen’s 2022 presidential bid, as well as the party's European Parliament and French parliamentary campaigns.

Kenyan President William Ruto on Wednesday declared "enough is enough" regarding recent anti-government protests, vowing he would not permit "anarchy" disguised as peaceful demonstrations, AP said in a report. Ruto urged police to "shoot in the leg" anyone involved in looting and property destruction. His statement addresses demonstrations that have resulted in dozens of deaths. The unrest was initially sparked in June 2024 by a contentious finance bill, with tensions escalating significantly after a policeman killed a demonstrator during rallies against police brutality.

Police in Canada have arrested and charged four individuals, including active military personnel, who were allegedly planning to establish an anti-government militia and forcibly seize land in Quebec, according to a report in The Guardian. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) operation uncovered a significant amount of material, including explosives and assault rifles. The seizure represents the largest weapons cache ever discovered as part of a terrorism investigation in the country.

Global stock markets are mostly higher as new U.S. tariff deadlines set by President Donald Trump's administration approach, according to a report in AP. The tariff developments contributed to a mixed close on Wall Street after the U.S. government sent tariff-related letters to several unspecified countries.

French President Emmanuel Macron's three-day state visit to the UK is centered on political discussions about the small-boats crisis in the English Channel, according to a report in The Guardian. The agenda includes addressing tactics like the recent slashing of inflatable boats by French police, a move supported by the UK, with a broader strategy expected to be outlined by Macron and UK opposition leader Keir Starmer. Separately, medical officials and humanitarian workers in Gaza report being overwhelmed by almost daily "mass casualty incidents" as they struggle to treat Palestinians wounded by Israeli fire while seeking aid.

South Sudan's government has confirmed it is holding eight men deported from the United States, only one of whom is a South Sudanese citizen, The Guardian says in a report. The other seven men being held in the war-torn country include two individuals from Myanmar, two from Cuba, and one each from Vietnam, Laos, and Mexico.

The US has set new 25% tariffs on Japan and South Korea and introduced new import taxes on 12 other nations, according to a report in AP. The trade policy has reportedly resulted in few concrete deals while creating significant uncertainty in global markets. Despite the new tariffs approaching, world shares were reported to be mostly higher.

Greece announced on Wednesday it is temporarily suspending asylum applications for migrants arriving on the island of Crete due to a significant increase in arrivals from Libya, AP said in a report. According to coast guard figures, more than 2,000 migrants have landed on the Mediterranean island since the weekend, pushing the total number of arrivals for the year to over 10,000. The Greek Prime Minister also stated the government intends to construct a new detention facility on Crete for the migrants.

Pope Francis prayed on Wednesday for the world to recognize the urgency of the climate crisis and “hear the cry of the poor,” as per a report in AP. The prayer was part of the first papal Mass celebrated using a new set of prayers and readings inspired by his encyclical, Laudato Si'. The Mass took place in the gardens of the Vatican’s new ecological educational center at the papal summer estate in Castel Gandolfo.

A search and rescue operation was launched on Wednesday for survivors of a Liberian-flagged cargo ship attacked by Houthi rebels in the Red Sea, according to a report in AP. The attack killed at least three mariners and wounded two others. This incident follows another Houthi attack on Sunday that resulted in the sinking of a separate vessel, leading to fears that this newly targeted ship may have also sunk.

The EU's Operation Aspides has reported that six crew members were recovered while 19 others are missing from the ship Eternity C, which was sunk by Yemen's Houthi rebels in the Red Sea, AP says in a report. A search for the remaining individuals is currently ongoing. The vessel had a total of 25 people on board, which included 22 sailors—21 from the Philippines and one from Russia—as well as a three-member security team. Among those recovered are five Filipinos.

A series of more than 37 earthquakes and aftershocks struck Guatemala on Tuesday, resulting in at least two deaths after rocks fell on a vehicle, as per a report in AP. Authorities stated that landslides have left several other people buried. The tremors, which ranged in magnitude from 3.0 to 5.6 according to Edwin Rodas, director of the National Institute for Seismology, Vulcanology, Meteorology and Hydrology, also led to the evacuation of buildings and caused minor property damage.

Russia launched its largest drone attack of the war against Ukraine, firing over 700 attack and decoy drones overnight, according to a report in AP. Ukrainian officials said the Wednesday barrage marks the third record-breaking attack in two weeks, part of Moscow's intensifying aerial campaign designed to overwhelm Ukraine's air defenses. Amid the attacks, US President Donald Trump stated that the US must send more weapons to Ukraine, as both nations look to increase their drone production.

The killing of a 49-year-old cardiologist and former hospital director in an Israeli airstrike last week has dealt a major blow to Gaza's medical establishment, AP says in a report. Colleagues described his death as a significant personal and professional loss, adding him to a growing list of prominent Palestinian doctors who have been killed during the 21-month war. The event leaves another void in the region's healthcare system, which is already in crisis and overwhelmed with casualties.

The European Court of Human Rights found Russia responsible for extensive violations of international law in cases brought by Ukraine and the Netherlands, AP said in a report. The court ruled that Moscow was behind the downing of Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17 in 2014 and is accountable for numerous atrocities in Ukraine dating back over a decade, including murder, torture, rape, destruction of civilian infrastructure, and the kidnapping of Ukrainian children.

Russia launched its largest drone barrage of the war against Ukraine, firing more than 700 attack and decoy drones overnight in what Ukrainian officials described as an intensifying assault, according to a report in AP. The attack, which marks the third time in two weeks Russia has set a new record for nightly drone launches, is seen as a strategy to overwhelm and deplete Ukraine's air defenses. Amid the escalation, U.S. President Donald Trump stated that the U.S. must send more weapons to Ukraine, while both nations are reportedly looking to increase their own drone production.

The European Court of Human Rights has ruled that Russia is responsible for significant human rights violations in Ukraine and for the 2014 downing of Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17, AP says in a report. In judgments on four interstate cases brought by Ukraine and the Netherlands, the court found Russia accountable for a pattern of atrocities including murder, torture, and the destruction of civilian infrastructure. The ruling establishes state responsibility for the MH17 disaster, which occurred over eastern Ukraine. The court affirmed its jurisdiction as the violations took place before Russia's 2022 withdrawal from the Council of Europe.

Rwanda's president announced a commitment to a US-mediated peace deal aimed at resolving the conflict with the neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), RT said in a report. While agreeing to the process, the president expressed caution, warning against potential "tricks." He also accused unspecified "rich countries" of being responsible for looting the DRC's mineral wealth and of "falsely blaming" his country, Rwanda, for the instability in the region.

A wildfire on the edge of Marseille, France, has injured more than 100 people, The New York Times said in a report. Firefighters worked through the night to prevent the blaze from entering France's second-biggest city. Officials stated that the wildfire was brought under control on Wednesday morning, meaning its perimeter has been contained.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has stated that NATO constitutes a direct threat to his country's security, according to a report in RT. Lavrov said that Russia had sought security guarantees from Western nations before the conflict in Ukraine, but these efforts were rebuffed.

The global landscape is currently defined by major concurrent crises, including the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East, persistent economic instability, and the escalating impacts of climate change, as per a report in The New York Times. The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas has resulted in a severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza and heightened regional tensions. Simultaneously, Russia's full-scale war in Ukraine continues as a war of attrition, sustained by significant Western military and financial aid. These geopolitical conflicts contribute to an uncertain global economic outlook, with many major economies grappling with persistent inflation. Furthermore, the increasing frequency of extreme weather events highlights the urgency of the climate crisis, challenging international diplomacy and cooperation on multiple fronts.

The Kremlin is utilizing all available legal channels to secure the release of Russian journalists detained in Azerbaijan, according to a report in RT. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed that Moscow is working on the issue and, in his statement, noted the historically close ties between Russia and Azerbaijan.

Recent global events include the Pope offering to hold peace talks with Russia after meeting with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy, as per a report in The Guardian. In other developments, US President Donald Trump criticized Russian President Vladimir Putin and promised to send 10 Patriot missile systems to Ukraine. Separately, an Israeli defence minister has put forward a proposal for Gaza that is being characterized as official planning for the mass forced displacement of Palestinians. Additionally, Canadian police have seized the country's largest-ever weapons cache as part of a terrorism inquiry.

India's Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has described the nation's partnership with Russia as 'resilient and steadfast,' citing what she termed exemplary levels of mutual trust between the two countries, according to a report in RT. The statement underscores the continued strong diplomatic and economic relationship between New Delhi and Moscow amidst the current global political landscape.

Brazilian President Lula da Silva criticized calls for increased NATO defense spending, stating such policies encourage war and neglect global development needs, according to a report in RT. Lula argued that resources allocated to what he termed an "arms race" should instead be used to address issues like poverty and inequality. NATO's official guideline calls for member nations to spend a minimum of 2% of their GDP on defense.

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has stated that the world does not need an "emperor" and called on the United States to learn to respect other nations, RT said in a report.

US President Donald Trump has announced that the United States will provide more weapons to Ukraine, according to a report in RT. The pledge signals a continuation of American military support for the country.