As the election season intensifies, the international monetary fund has issued a stark warning to the United States about its rising debt and fiscal deficits. In its annual report, the IMF highlighted that the US' debt-to-gdp ratio could reach 140% by 2030 if current trends continue.

IMF warns US debt-to-gdp ratio could reach 140% by 2030

US President Joe Biden faces a fresh round of hazards from members of his own party as he seeks to salvage his embattled reelection bid and fend off calls from Democratic lawmakers to step aside. Watch in for more details!

US President Joe Biden addresses religious gathering in Philadelphia, jokes about his age

US President Biden pushes on to Pennsylvania as pressure from Democrats rises

Hurricane Beryl made landfall near Matagorda in the second-largest state Texas’ central coastline as a Category 1 storm the US National Hurricane Center confirmed Monday forced major oil ports and flight cancellations to be closed. Watch in for more details!

Hurricane Beryl makes landfall in Texas as category 1 storm

The United States and Australia join forces to bolster financial services in the Pacific Islands, where China is wielding growing influence.

Pacific island nations are feeling it hard as Western banks retreat and limit opportunities for key services.

"The United States is committed to addressing bank de-risking in the Pacific," told US Treasury Undersecretary Brian Nelson as he acknowledged the problems.

Traditional regional powerhouse Australia pledged to continue as an important partner to Pacific Island nations. At the same time, Australian Assistant Treasurer Stephen Jones said that they are wary of countries pursuing their self-interest at the expense of the Pacific islands, but stopped short of referring directly to China.

This comes as China has been expanding its economic and political influence across the Pacific.

China has signed trade and financing agreements with nations of Pacific Island countries, and the Bank of China has an office in every corner of the region.

It is in the context of this influence competition that officials from both the US and Australia itself have not announced concrete plans.

Mostly closed to media, comments from officials during the co-hosted US-Australia two-day Pacific Banking Forum seem to have focused on the improvement of financial integration and access to banking services.

This is an extremely important focus to the economic health of Pacific Island countries.

The Treasury Secretary of the US, Janet Yellen, noted in a virtual speech that there needs to be a "free and open, connected, prosperous, secure, and resilient" Pacific.

(With inputs from Reuters)

The United States and Australia join forces to bolster financial services in the Pacific Islands, where China is wielding growing influence. Pacific island nations are feeling it hard as Western banks retreat and limit opportunities for key services.

The United States and Australia join forces to bolster financial services in the Pacific Islands, where China is wielding growing influence. Pacific island nations are feeling it hard as Western banks retreat and limit opportunities for key services. "The United States is committed to addressing bank de-risking in the Pacific," told US Treasury Undersecretary Brian Nelson as he acknowledged the problems. Traditional regional powerhouse Australia pledged to continue as an important partner to Pacific Island nations. At the same time, Australian Assistant Treasurer Stephen Jones said that they are wary of countries pursuing their self-interest at the expense of the Pacific islands, but stopped short of referring directly to China. This comes as China has been expanding its economic and political influence across the Pacific. China has signed trade and financing agreements with nations of Pacific Island countries, and the Bank of China has an office in every corner of the region. It is in the context of this influence competition that officials from both the US and Australia itself have not announced concrete plans. Mostly closed to media, comments from officials during the co-hosted US-Australia two-day Pacific Banking Forum seem to have focused on the improvement of financial integration and access to banking services. This is an extremely important focus to the economic health of Pacific Island countries. The Treasury Secretary of the US, Janet Yellen, noted in a virtual speech that there needs to be a "free and open, connected, prosperous, secure, and resilient" Pacific. (With inputs from Reuters)

US and Australia vow to bolster Pacific banking as China expands influence

The US President Joe Biden has been leaving no stone unturned to deflect a push back from his fellow Democrats. The 81-year-old has been trying to project enough strength for his reelection bid amid growing concerns over his candidacy. Watch in for more details!

US Elections 2024: President Biden rallies in critical swing state as pressure mounts

US elections: Age only one of the challenges confronting Biden

After being pounded by Hurricane Beryl on Friday, Mexico has begun the relief operations and repair work. The military is distributing food and essential supplies and efforts are on to fix the power lines following its deadly trail of destruction across several Caribbean islands. Watch in for more details!

Hurricane Beryl headed towards Texas, will make landfall soon

Thousands of people have been ordered to evacuate as a wildfire rages out of control in Utah. More than 10,000 acres of grass and woodland have been consumed since the blaze erupted. Air tankers and helicopters have also been deployed for the rescue mission.

US | Utah wildfire: Air tankers & helicopters deployed for rescue mission

About 130 million people in the US face a scorching heatwave in the coming week that weathermen say could break all records. Watch in for more details!

US heatwave: Earth's temperature 1.5 degrees celcius higher than average

Reports suggest that&nbsp;senior House Democrats are set to publicly urge President Joe Biden to withdraw from the presidential race on Monday because of concerns about his ability to serve effectively for the next four years.

In other news, Boeing has avoided a criminal trial over the 737 Max crashes by accepting a plea deal for a criminal fraud charge, as announced by the Justice Department.

In France, the elections concluded with a hung parliament, creating political uncertainty despite the left's victory over the far-right. Here's what it means.

On October 7, during the Hamas assault, the Israel Defence Forces reportedly used the controversial "Hannibal protocol," a battle tactic that endangers civilians.

Meanwhile, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Russia occurs amid strengthening ties between Russia and China.

Click on the headlines to read more

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/senior-house-democrat-to-publicly-ask-biden-to-exit-presidential-race-on-monday-reports-suggest-738825">Senior House Democrat to publicly ask Biden to exit presidential race on Monday, reports suggest</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/07/05/441804-untitled-design-2024-07-05t112143432.png?imwidth=400" />

US President Joe Biden's woes seem to have taken a never-ending turn as several senior House Democrats have reportedly discussed that Biden should step down as their party's 2024 White House nominee. They all reportedly got on a private phone call Sunday afternoon, as per reports, and plan to speak up publicly about their concerns on Monday. The major concern, as a source who spoke to USA Today, is whether Biden can efficiently carry on the work of a president for the next four years.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boeing-avoids-criminal-trial-over-737-max-crashes-after-accepting-plead-deal-738824">Boeing avoids criminal trial over 737 Max crashes after accepting plea deal</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/07/01/440965-untitled-design-2.png?imwidth=400" />

Boeing will plead guilty to a criminal fraud charge stemming from two deadly crashes of 737 Max jetliners after the government determined the company violated an agreement that had protected it from prosecution for more than three years, the Justice Department said Sunday night.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-french-elections-ended-in-a-hung-parliament-what-happens-next-738795">Explained: French elections ended in a hung parliament. What happens next?</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/07/08/442199-new-wion-93.png?imwidth=400" />

France on Monday (July 7) delivered a crippling blow to the far-right that looked set to win what was labelled a "seismic" election.&nbsp;

The nation is in a state of political uncertainty. Even as the left defeated the far right in the French elections, neither party won the absolute majority, leaving the nation with a hung parliament.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/idf-used-controversial-hannibal-protocol-endangering-civilians-on-oct-7-report-738829">IDF used controversial 'Hannibal protocol' endangering civilians on Oct 7: Report</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/07/08/442220-new-wion-94.png?imwidth=400" />

On 7 October, during the initial chaos of the Hamas assault, Israel's armed forces reportedly employed a controversial battle tactic called the "Hannibal protocol," claims a report.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;PM Modi's Russia Visit: Visit comes amid growing Russia-China ties

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Reports suggest that senior House Democrats are set to publicly urge President Joe Biden to withdraw from the presidential race on Monday because of concerns about his ability to serve effectively for the next four years.

Reports suggest that senior House Democrats are set to publicly urge President Joe Biden to withdraw from the presidential race on Monday because of concerns about his ability to serve effectively for the next four years. In other news, Boeing has avoided a criminal trial over the 737 Max crashes by accepting a plea deal for a criminal fraud charge, as announced by the Justice Department. In France, the elections concluded with a hung parliament, creating political uncertainty despite the left's victory over the far-right. Here's what it means. On October 7, during the Hamas assault, the Israel Defence Forces reportedly used the controversial "Hannibal protocol," a battle tactic that endangers civilians. Meanwhile, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Russia occurs amid strengthening ties between Russia and China. Click on the headlines to read more Senior House Democrat to publicly ask Biden to exit presidential race on Monday, reports suggest US President Joe Biden's woes seem to have taken a never-ending turn as several senior House Democrats have reportedly discussed that Biden should step down as their party's 2024 White House nominee. They all reportedly got on a private phone call Sunday afternoon, as per reports, and plan to speak up publicly about their concerns on Monday. The major concern, as a source who spoke to USA Today, is whether Biden can efficiently carry on the work of a president for the next four years. Boeing avoids criminal trial over 737 Max crashes after accepting plea deal Boeing will plead guilty to a criminal fraud charge stemming from two deadly crashes of 737 Max jetliners after the government determined the company violated an agreement that had protected it from prosecution for more than three years, the Justice Department said Sunday night. Explained: French elections ended in a hung parliament. What happens next? France on Monday (July 7) delivered a crippling blow to the far-right that looked set to win what was labelled a "seismic" election. The nation is in a state of political uncertainty. Even as the left defeated the far right in the French elections, neither party won the absolute majority, leaving the nation with a hung parliament. IDF used controversial 'Hannibal protocol' endangering civilians on Oct 7: Report On 7 October, during the initial chaos of the Hamas assault, Israel's armed forces reportedly employed a controversial battle tactic called the "Hannibal protocol," claims a report. Watch | PM Modi's Russia Visit: Visit comes amid growing Russia-China ties

Morning brief: Senior Democrats to ask Biden to quit election race; Boeing avoids criminal trial, and more

US Heatwave: National Weather Service puts out heat advisories; Red Alert issued for California

Joe Biden finds himself under mounting pressure to quit the 2024 race from democratic leaders as well as party donors. Calls for the US president to step aside have been surfacing since his performance in the first debate, they have now intensified after his interview with ABC News on Friday. Watch in for more details!

US Elections 2024: President Joe Biden says, 'I am running and going to win again'

Headlines of the hour: - France: Voting underway in round 2 of SNAP polls - Biden to campaign in Pennslyvania on Sunday - Kulgam encounter: 6 terrorists killed - Anti-Netanyahu protests- 'unseat the tyrant' - Security alert at Army camp in J&K - Hindenburg shared Adani report with client: SEBI - Uttarakhand: Red alert for heavy rains

WION Headlines: Biden to campaign in Pennsylvania on Sunday | Uttarakhand: Red alert for heavy rains

Talen Energy has petitioned US regulators to dismiss a challenge brought against its recent deal with Amazon data centre. The opposition, led by electric utilities such as American Electric Power and Exelon, claims that there is likely to be an increase in the power bills for the general public with such an agreement.

In a Friday filing, Talen Energy emphasised that the utilities' concerns are ill-founded. The firm has upheld its interconnection agreement regarding the Amazon data centre, which will have no bearing on grid reliability and increase utility costs to its customers.

"It is an unlawful attempt to hijack this limited interconnection service agreement amendment proceeding that they have no stake in and turn it into an ad hoc national referendum on the future of data centre load," Talen said in its filing with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.

The deal, announced in March, will see Talen sell electricity and a data centre campus at its nuclear power plant in Pennsylvania. This will provide Amazon Web Services with up to 960 megawatts of electricity for its data centres—enough to power about one million homes.

Tech companies are looking for vast amounts of electricity to power and cool data centres handling key modern advances such as generative AI. Nuclear energy, which is virtually carbon-free, provides continuous power, rapidly becoming one of the most preferred options for powering data centres.

Last month, a coalition of utilities—including American Electric Power and Exelon—asked the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to either further investigate the agreement or scrap it. They argued that the interconnection agreement could shift an unfair cost to regular ratepayers of $140 million annually.

Talen Energy believes extensively that the deal has potential public benefits without increased power costs or destabilising power grids. While the company hopes for the regulatory thumbs-up on the deal, Talen claims the deal would usher in surging demand for secure, carbon-free energy needed by the rapidly growing tech industry.

Talen Energy has petitioned US regulators to dismiss a challenge brought against its recent deal with Amazon data centre. The opposition, led by electric utilities such as American Electric Power and Exelon, claims that there is likely to be an increase in the power bills for the general public with such an agreement.

Talen Energy has petitioned US regulators to dismiss a challenge brought against its recent deal with Amazon data centre. The opposition, led by electric utilities such as American Electric Power and Exelon, claims that there is likely to be an increase in the power bills for the general public with such an agreement. In a Friday filing, Talen Energy emphasised that the utilities' concerns are ill-founded. The firm has upheld its interconnection agreement regarding the Amazon data centre, which will have no bearing on grid reliability and increase utility costs to its customers. "It is an unlawful attempt to hijack this limited interconnection service agreement amendment proceeding that they have no stake in and turn it into an ad hoc national referendum on the future of data centre load," Talen said in its filing with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. The deal, announced in March, will see Talen sell electricity and a data centre campus at its nuclear power plant in Pennsylvania. This will provide Amazon Web Services with up to 960 megawatts of electricity for its data centres—enough to power about one million homes. Tech companies are looking for vast amounts of electricity to power and cool data centres handling key modern advances such as generative AI. Nuclear energy, which is virtually carbon-free, provides continuous power, rapidly becoming one of the most preferred options for powering data centres. Last month, a coalition of utilities—including American Electric Power and Exelon—asked the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to either further investigate the agreement or scrap it. They argued that the interconnection agreement could shift an unfair cost to regular ratepayers of $140 million annually. Talen Energy believes extensively that the deal has potential public benefits without increased power costs or destabilising power grids. While the company hopes for the regulatory thumbs-up on the deal, Talen claims the deal would usher in surging demand for secure, carbon-free energy needed by the rapidly growing tech industry.

Power play: Will Talen's Amazon deal spark a utility battle?

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday (Jul 4) that he believed Donald Trump was sincere about wanting to end the war in Ukraine. Putin further added that he doesn't know how the presumptive Republican presidential nominee&nbsp;planned to do so if elected this year.&nbsp;

While speaking at a news conference in Kazakhstan at the end of a regional security conference, Putin was asked about Trump's statements that he could end the Ukraine war. Russia refers to the war&nbsp;on Ukraine as a "special military operation".&nbsp;

Putin commented, "The fact that Mr Trump, as a presidential candidate, declares that he is ready and wants to stop the war in Ukraine, we take this completely seriously."&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-xi-tout-russia-china-partnership-at-sco-summit-countering-western-influence-737888">Putin, Xi tout Russia-China partnership at SCO Summit countering Western influence</a>&nbsp;

"I am not, of course, familiar with possible proposals for how he plans to do this. This is the key question. But I have no doubt that he means it sincerely, and we support it (the idea of ending the war)," the Russian president added.&nbsp;

During a debate with President Joe Biden last week, Trump had said that if elected, he would have the conflict "settled" before he took office in January 2025.&nbsp;

This is not the first time as&nbsp;Putin has previously claimed to be open to talks on ending the conflict. However, last month he demanded Ukraine effectively capitulate as a precondition of a ceasefire.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sco-summit-xi-meets-old-friend-putin-duo-vows-to-fast-track-power-of-siberia-2-gas-pipeline-project-737590">SCO summit: Xi meets 'old friend' Putin, duo vows to fast-track Power of Siberia 2 gas pipeline project</a>&nbsp;

The head of the Kremlin had said that if Ukraine wanted Russia's offensive to stop, its soldiers must leave the country's east and south and give up any area they now control.&nbsp;

Putin's comments Russian troops have made modest advances on the battlefield this year after a Ukrainian counter-offensive in 2023 was largely unsuccessful.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Ukraine's F-16s: A sitting duck or a game changer?

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<h2>Putin says Taliban 'our allies'&nbsp;</h2>

Meanwhile, Putin said that the Taliban, which is a banned group in Russia, are Moscow's "allies" in fighting terrorism because they are in control of Afghanistan.&nbsp;

Although the Taliban has been outlawed in Russia since 2003, Moscow has long supported ties with them, and Putin recently demanded that Moscow "build up" ties with the Taliban regime.&nbsp;

Putin said in Astana, "We must assume that the Taliban control the power in the country. And in this sense, the Taliban are, of course, our allies in the fight against terrorism, because any authorities are interested in stability in the state they govern."&nbsp;

Putin said that the Taliban have "taken on some responsibilities" but that there are still "issues that need constant attention inside the country and from the international community".&nbsp;

"I am sure that the Taliban are interested in everything being stable in Afghanistan," he added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday (Jul 4) that he believed Donald Trump was sincere about wanting to end the war in Ukraine. Putin further added that he doesn't know how the presumptive Republican presidential nominee planned to do so if elected this year.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday (Jul 4) that he believed Donald Trump was sincere about wanting to end the war in Ukraine. Putin further added that he doesn't know how the presumptive Republican presidential nominee planned to do so if elected this year. While speaking at a news conference in Kazakhstan at the end of a regional security conference, Putin was asked about Trump's statements that he could end the Ukraine war. Russia refers to the war on Ukraine as a "special military operation". Putin commented, "The fact that Mr Trump, as a presidential candidate, declares that he is ready and wants to stop the war in Ukraine, we take this completely seriously." Also read: Putin, Xi tout Russia-China partnership at SCO Summit countering Western influence "I am not, of course, familiar with possible proposals for how he plans to do this. This is the key question. But I have no doubt that he means it sincerely, and we support it (the idea of ending the war)," the Russian president added. During a debate with President Joe Biden last week, Trump had said that if elected, he would have the conflict "settled" before he took office in January 2025. This is not the first time as Putin has previously claimed to be open to talks on ending the conflict. However, last month he demanded Ukraine effectively capitulate as a precondition of a ceasefire. Also read: SCO summit: Xi meets 'old friend' Putin, duo vows to fast-track Power of Siberia 2 gas pipeline project The head of the Kremlin had said that if Ukraine wanted Russia's offensive to stop, its soldiers must leave the country's east and south and give up any area they now control. Putin's comments Russian troops have made modest advances on the battlefield this year after a Ukrainian counter-offensive in 2023 was largely unsuccessful. Watch: Ukraine's F-16s: A sitting duck or a game changer? × Putin says Taliban 'our allies' Meanwhile, Putin said that the Taliban, which is a banned group in Russia, are Moscow's "allies" in fighting terrorism because they are in control of Afghanistan. Although the Taliban has been outlawed in Russia since 2003, Moscow has long supported ties with them, and Putin recently demanded that Moscow "build up" ties with the Taliban regime. Putin said in Astana, "We must assume that the Taliban control the power in the country. And in this sense, the Taliban are, of course, our allies in the fight against terrorism, because any authorities are interested in stability in the state they govern." Putin said that the Taliban have "taken on some responsibilities" but that there are still "issues that need constant attention inside the country and from the international community". "I am sure that the Taliban are interested in everything being stable in Afghanistan," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Vladimir Putin believes Donald Trump is sincere about ending Ukraine war

Pop culture fans and history buffs consider Musée Grévin a must-see attraction along Paris’s Seine River. The museum is home to over 200 wax sculptures of famous figures like Albert Einstein, Mahatma Gandhi, Michael Jackson, and Leonardo DiCaprio. Although visitors enjoy “meeting” these iconic faces, the initial unveiling often stirs up controversy. Enter Beyoncé, unveiled this morning.

American popstar Beyonce at Grevin Museum in Paris

United States President Joe Biden has slapped down calls to end his faltering re-election bid, insisting he is "not going anywhere". Watch in for more details!

'I am not going anywhere', Biden slams concern around presidential bid

Russia's President Vladimir Putin weighed on the Presidential debate between the American President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump. Putin has said that he sees fragments of the debate between the two contenders.

Putin weighs in on Trump's peace proposal, comments on Trump-Biden debate

US President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump are back on campaign rallies after their first debate of 2024 where Biden was widely panned for his performance and Trump was widely panned for his honesty. Watch in for more details!

Trump, Biden back on campaign trial after debate | WION-VOA Co-Production

President Joe Biden, 81, and former president Donald Trump, 78, are the two oldest major party candidates for the US presidency. Watch to know more.

US: How President Biden evaded media glare? ; Biden's media interactions closely monitored

Headlines of the hour: - UK's Labour sweeps to power - UK: Rishi Sunak to resign as Tory Leader - UK: Record number of ministers lose - Iranians vote in run-off election - US: Biden seeks campaign reset - Global stocks at a record high

US: Biden seeks campaign reset | Iranians vote in run-off election

Joe Biden is "absolutely not" pulling out of the White House race, his spokeswoman said Wednesday, as pressure mounted on the president following his disastrous debate performance against Donald Trump.

US: I'm in the race to the end says Joe Biden, rejects pressure to abandon campaign

In the United Kingdom, voters are gearing up to cast their ballots in a pivotal general election today (Thursday, July 4). The election is widely seen as a referendum on 14 years of Conservative governance.

In Australia, pro-Palestine protesters scaled the roof of the Parliament House in Canberra, brandishing banners declaring "Palestine will be free" and accusing Israel of war crimes.

Meanwhile, in the Democratic Republic of Congo, 25 soldiers were sentenced to death for fleeing the enemy during battles against M23 rebels.

In Canada, Lieutenant-General Jennie Carignan made history by appointing its first woman&nbsp;Chief of the Defence Staff, a move by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to elevate women to senior roles.

Lastly, the Indian cricket team, fondly known as the 'Men in Blue'&nbsp;have arrived in New Delhi five days after winning the World Cup.

Click on the headlines to read more

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-voters-head-to-the-polls-for-landmark-general-election-737612">UK voters prepare to head to polls for the general election</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/07/04/441543-untitled-design-17.png?imwidth=400" />

Voters in the UK are heading to the polls on Thursday (July 4) for a key general election that is being seen as a referendum on 14 years of Conservative rule.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/palestine-will-be-free-pro-palestine-protestors-climb-australia-parliament-roof-blame-israel-of-war-crimes-737610">'Palestine will be free': Pro-Palestine protestors climb Australia Parliament roof, blame Israel of war crimes</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/07/04/441527-new-wion-2024-07-04t081313467.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Pro-Palestine protesters scaled the roof of the Australian Parliament House in the capital Canberra on Thursday (July 4). Carrying banners that said "Palestine will be free", the protesters accused Israel of war crimes.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dr-congo-sentences-25-soldiers-to-death-for-fleeing-the-enemy-lawyer-737630">DR Congo sentences 25 soldiers to death for 'fleeing the enemy': Lawyer</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2019/06/18/99047-untitled-design-6.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Twenty-five soldiers accused of "fleeing the enemy" while fighting M23 rebels in the Democratic Republic of Congo were sentenced to death Wednesday during a one-day trial, according to their lawyers.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-jennie-carignan-canadas-first-woman-to-be-appointed-chief-of-the-defence-staff-737642">Who is Jennie Carignan? Canada's first woman to be appointed Chief of the Defence Staff</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/07/04/441550-new-wion-2024-07-04t095604479.jpg?imwidth=400" />

In a historic first, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Wednesday (July 3)&nbsp;appointed Lieutenant-General Jennie Carignan as the country's top soldier, in charge of leading the military. This appointment is in line with Trudeau's continuing push to appoint women to the most senior jobs.

Watch |&nbsp;The men in blue landed in New Delhi five days winning WC

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In the United Kingdom, voters are gearing up to cast their ballots in a pivotal general election today (Thursday, July 4). The election is widely seen as a referendum on 14 years of Conservative governance.

In the United Kingdom, voters are gearing up to cast their ballots in a pivotal general election today (Thursday, July 4). The election is widely seen as a referendum on 14 years of Conservative governance. In Australia, pro-Palestine protesters scaled the roof of the Parliament House in Canberra, brandishing banners declaring "Palestine will be free" and accusing Israel of war crimes. Meanwhile, in the Democratic Republic of Congo, 25 soldiers were sentenced to death for fleeing the enemy during battles against M23 rebels. In Canada, Lieutenant-General Jennie Carignan made history by appointing its first woman Chief of the Defence Staff, a move by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to elevate women to senior roles. Lastly, the Indian cricket team, fondly known as the 'Men in Blue' have arrived in New Delhi five days after winning the World Cup. Click on the headlines to read more UK voters prepare to head to polls for the general election Voters in the UK are heading to the polls on Thursday (July 4) for a key general election that is being seen as a referendum on 14 years of Conservative rule. 'Palestine will be free': Pro-Palestine protestors climb Australia Parliament roof, blame Israel of war crimes Pro-Palestine protesters scaled the roof of the Australian Parliament House in the capital Canberra on Thursday (July 4). Carrying banners that said "Palestine will be free", the protesters accused Israel of war crimes. DR Congo sentences 25 soldiers to death for 'fleeing the enemy': Lawyer Twenty-five soldiers accused of "fleeing the enemy" while fighting M23 rebels in the Democratic Republic of Congo were sentenced to death Wednesday during a one-day trial, according to their lawyers. Who is Jennie Carignan? Canada's first woman to be appointed Chief of the Defence Staff In a historic first, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Wednesday (July 3) appointed Lieutenant-General Jennie Carignan as the country's top soldier, in charge of leading the military. This appointment is in line with Trudeau's continuing push to appoint women to the most senior jobs. Watch | The men in blue landed in New Delhi five days winning WC

Morning news brief: Voting in UK polls; Canada names first woman to lead military, and more

Prices of oil plummeted at the beginning of the trading session on Thursday from weak US employment and business activity data, which points to the fact that the world's largest consumer of oil is witnessing a cooling in the economy.

By 0030 GMT, Brent crude futures dipped 30 cents, or 0.34 per cent, to $87.04 a barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures dropped 32 cents, or 0.38 per cent, to $83.56. Reduced activity due to the US Fourth of July holiday also had an effect on the market.

Recent data has contributed to fears that the US economy is losing momentum. First-time applications for unemployment benefits rose last week and the number of people on jobless rolls hit a 2-1/2-year high through late June. The ADP Employment report showed private payrolls increased by 150,000 in June; however this is below the 160,000 consensus and May's 157,000 rise.

As if the economic worry did not have enough variables, the ISM Non-Manufacturing Index, which is a barometer of activity in the US service sector, fell to a four-year low of 48.8 in June, far below the consensus of 52.5, driven by a steep decrease in orders.

While that is weaker in terms of economic data, analysts indicate that this may actually strengthen the case for the Federal Reserve to cut interest rates, together with lower rates that can prompt demand for enhanced oil markets.

"The direction of recent data conforms to the Fed's easing bias," ANZ Research analysts said in a note. "A slowdown in growth momentum will support disinflationary impulses in coming months, paving the way for the Fed to cut rates."

Prices of oil plummeted at the beginning of the trading session on Thursday from weak US employment and business activity data, which points to the fact that the world's largest consumer of oil is witnessing a cooling in the economy.

Prices of oil plummeted at the beginning of the trading session on Thursday from weak US employment and business activity data, which points to the fact that the world's largest consumer of oil is witnessing a cooling in the economy. By 0030 GMT, Brent crude futures dipped 30 cents, or 0.34 per cent, to $87.04 a barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures dropped 32 cents, or 0.38 per cent, to $83.56. Reduced activity due to the US Fourth of July holiday also had an effect on the market. Recent data has contributed to fears that the US economy is losing momentum. First-time applications for unemployment benefits rose last week and the number of people on jobless rolls hit a 2-1/2-year high through late June. The ADP Employment report showed private payrolls increased by 150,000 in June; however this is below the 160,000 consensus and May's 157,000 rise. As if the economic worry did not have enough variables, the ISM Non-Manufacturing Index, which is a barometer of activity in the US service sector, fell to a four-year low of 48.8 in June, far below the consensus of 52.5, driven by a steep decrease in orders. While that is weaker in terms of economic data, analysts indicate that this may actually strengthen the case for the Federal Reserve to cut interest rates, together with lower rates that can prompt demand for enhanced oil markets. "The direction of recent data conforms to the Fed's easing bias," ANZ Research analysts said in a note. "A slowdown in growth momentum will support disinflationary impulses in coming months, paving the way for the Fed to cut rates."

Oil spill amid signs of US economic slowdown

California lawmakers voted to advance legislation Tuesday that would require artificial intelligence companies to test their systems and add safety measures to prevent them from being potentially manipulated to wipe out the state’s electric grid or help build chemical weapons — scenarios that experts say could be possible in the future as technology evolves at warp speed.

California advances bill requiring AI safety tests to prevent catastrophic risks

Former United States President Donald Trump, in a recently surfaced video,&nbsp;unleashed a verbal attack on President Joe Biden, labelling him a "broken-down pile of crap" and predicting his withdrawal from the 2024 presidential race.

The leaked footage showed Trump seated in a golf cart with his son Barron, dissecting Biden's performance and speculating about the future of the Democratic ticket.

"I kicked that old, broken-down pile of cr*p. He's quitting the race," the former US president&nbsp;could be heard saying, as per the viral video.&nbsp;

Trump, who is the presumed Republican presidential candidate, is seen holding a stack of cash as he questioned his own debate performance against Biden.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-pm-expresses-confidence-in-preventing-far-right-majority-737776">French PM expresses confidence in preventing far-right majority</a>

“How did I do with the debate the other night?" Trump asked a group of people.&nbsp;

Later, he said that he would outperform the 81-year-old president and suggested that Biden's withdrawal would pave the way for Vice President Kamala Harris to step in as the Democratic nominee.

<h2>Trump launches scathing attack on Kamala Harris&nbsp;</h2>

The former president goes on to criticise Harris.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mexico-braces-for-destruction-as-deadly-hurricane-beryl-heads-towards-it-with-130-mph-winds-737774">Mexico braces for destruction as 'deadly' hurricane Beryl heads towards it with 130 mph winds</a>

"I got him out of the race, and that means we have Kamala. I think she's going to be better. She's so bad. She's so pathetic. She's just so f**king bad," the former president said in the video that has garnered widespread attention.&nbsp;

Trump also goes on to&nbsp;question&nbsp;Biden's capability to handle global leaders like Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping.&nbsp;

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BREAKING: Leaked video shows Donald Trump saying he thinks Kamala Harris will be the Democrat nominee, says she is "so f**king bad." 
 
"She's so bad. She's so pathetic. She's just so f**king bad." 
 
"How did I do with the debate the other night? I kicked that old, broken down pile… <a href="https://t.co/8OKxd1hHc6">pic.twitter.com/8OKxd1hHc6</a>
— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) <a href="https://twitter.com/CollinRugg/status/1808658559359725848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 4, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The exact location and timing of the video remain undisclosed, but the Trump campaign has responded by redirecting inquiries to a previous statement condemning the Democratic Party's alleged collapse.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-election-2024-britons-vote-in-election-expected-to-bring-labour-to-power-737855">UK Election 2024: Britons vote in election expected to bring Labour to power</a>

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Despite mounting pressure from within the Democratic ranks for Biden to withdraw from the re-election race following a lacklustre debate performance, the president remains resolute in his commitment to continue his candidacy.

The White House has asserted Biden's intention to run for a second term, dismissing suggestions of him dropping out of the 2024 presidential race.

(With inputs from agencies)

Former United States President Donald Trump, in a recently surfaced video, unleashed a verbal attack on President Joe Biden, labelling him a "broken-down pile of crap" and predicting his withdrawal from the 2024 presidential race.

Former United States President Donald Trump, in a recently surfaced video, unleashed a verbal attack on President Joe Biden, labelling him a "broken-down pile of crap" and predicting his withdrawal from the 2024 presidential race. The leaked footage showed Trump seated in a golf cart with his son Barron, dissecting Biden's performance and speculating about the future of the Democratic ticket. "I kicked that old, broken-down pile of cr*p. He's quitting the race," the former US president could be heard saying, as per the viral video. Trump, who is the presumed Republican presidential candidate, is seen holding a stack of cash as he questioned his own debate performance against Biden. Also Read | French PM expresses confidence in preventing far-right majority “How did I do with the debate the other night?" Trump asked a group of people. Later, he said that he would outperform the 81-year-old president and suggested that Biden's withdrawal would pave the way for Vice President Kamala Harris to step in as the Democratic nominee. Trump launches scathing attack on Kamala Harris The former president goes on to criticise Harris. Also Read | Mexico braces for destruction as 'deadly' hurricane Beryl heads towards it with 130 mph winds "I got him out of the race, and that means we have Kamala. I think she's going to be better. She's so bad. She's so pathetic. She's just so f**king bad," the former president said in the video that has garnered widespread attention. Trump also goes on to question Biden's capability to handle global leaders like Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping. BREAKING: Leaked video shows Donald Trump saying he thinks Kamala Harris will be the Democrat nominee, says she is "so f**king bad." "She's so bad. She's so pathetic. She's just so f**king bad." "How did I do with the debate the other night? I kicked that old, broken down pile… pic.twitter.com/8OKxd1hHc6 — Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) July 4, 2024 × The exact location and timing of the video remain undisclosed, but the Trump campaign has responded by redirecting inquiries to a previous statement condemning the Democratic Party's alleged collapse. Watch | UK Election 2024: Britons vote in election expected to bring Labour to power × Despite mounting pressure from within the Democratic ranks for Biden to withdraw from the re-election race following a lacklustre debate performance, the president remains resolute in his commitment to continue his candidacy. The White House has asserted Biden's intention to run for a second term, dismissing suggestions of him dropping out of the 2024 presidential race. (With inputs from agencies)

WATCH | Leaked video shows Trump mocking Biden, calls Harris 'f**king bad'

The Democratic governors of New York, Minnesota and Maryland on Wednesday said they would support President Joe Biden's reelection bid after a candid discussion with him about his performance in last week's debate. Watch in for more details!

US: Democratic Governors voice support for Biden after 'candid' meet

US: Democratic Governors vow to stand with Biden after 'candid' meet

US President Joe Biden has vowed to stay in the presidential race despite his shaky performance in the first debate during a call with campaign staff Biden reassured top Democrats on Capitol Hill that he is fit for the reelection. Watch in for more details!

US: Joe Biden 'staying in the race'

Thousands of people have been ordered to evacuate as a wildfire rages out of control in northern California. More than 3,500 acres or 1,400 hectares of grass and woodland have been consumed since Tuesday when a blaze erupted just outside Oroville...

California Wildfire: 13,000 residents forced to flee their homes; flames engulf homes & vehicles

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