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New York City Democratic mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani condemned United States President Donald Trump’s “Big Beautiful Bill,” calling it “one of the biggest heists in US history” in a post on X. This was Mamdani's last attempt to stall the bill in the US House and help Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. He criticized the bill for gutting social safety nets while handing out trillions in tax breaks to the wealthiest Americans. “It steals from the sick,” he wrote, warning that up to 20 million Americans—1.5 million of them in New York—could lose Medicaid coverage if the bill passes. He also noted that 300,000 New Yorkers could lose all or part of their SNAP (food stamp) benefits, part of broader cuts that would affect 40 million people nationwide, including one in five children. Trump's big beautiful bill has now been passed by the US House and will be signed into a bill on July 4th by Trump.&nbsp;In a series of post, Mamdani accused Trump and Republican lawmakers of serving the interests of billionaires at the expense of working families. He said, “This is exactly why billionaires spend so much money on our elections,” he added, calling the bill a massive transfer of wealth to those who need it least. He added, “It steals from the hungry, cutting nutrition assistance for 40 million people, including 1 in 5 children nationwide. 300,000 New Yorkers could lose all or some of their SNAP benefits. And it steals from our future, ending investments in renewable energy that lower utility costs and protect the planet. The spoils of this plunder are trillions of dollars in tax cuts for the wealthiest 1%—a massive upward transfer of wealth for people who need it least.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Trump and Republicans in Congress are trying to pull off one of the biggest heists in U.S. history. The so-called “Big Beautiful Bill” is robbery, plain and simple. And it’s being committed by the billionaire class and the politicians they put into office.&mdash; Zohran Kwame Mamdani (@ZohranKMamdani) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZohranKMamdani/status/1940819299226272031?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 3, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>US House passes ‘big beautiful bill’</h2>The Republican-controlled House of Representatives narrowly approved the measure, delivering the President a major legislative win ahead of the July 4 Independence Day holiday. The 218–214 vote capped a marathon push by Republicans. "One of the most consequential Bills ever. The USA is the 'HOTTEST' Country in the World, by far!!!" Trump said on social media. The timing of the vote slipped back as Democratic minority leader Hakeem Jeffries spoke against the bill for nearly nine hours to delay proceedings. After the passage of the bill, Trump said to reporters, “We are celebrating the biggest bill of its kind ever signed — and it's going to make this country into a rocket ship. It's going to be really great.” He added, "I think when you go over the bill, it was very easy to get them to a 'Yes.' We won over the bill... the biggest tax cut in history, great for security, great on the southern border. Immigration is covered; we covered just about everything. Again, it's the biggest bill ever signed of its kind."

New York City Democratic mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani attempted to stall Donald Trump's ‘big beautiful bill’ and criticised it heavily claiming that it is one of the biggest heists in US history

New York City Democratic mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani condemned United States President Donald Trump’s “Big Beautiful Bill,” calling it “one of the biggest heists in US history” in a post on X. This was Mamdani's last attempt to stall the bill in the US House and help Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. He criticized the bill for gutting social safety nets while handing out trillions in tax breaks to the wealthiest Americans. “It steals from the sick,” he wrote, warning that up to 20 million Americans—1.5 million of them in New York—could lose Medicaid coverage if the bill passes. He also noted that 300,000 New Yorkers could lose all or part of their SNAP (food stamp) benefits, part of broader cuts that would affect 40 million people nationwide, including one in five children. Trump's big beautiful bill has now been passed by the US House and will be signed into a bill on July 4th by Trump. In a series of post, Mamdani accused Trump and Republican lawmakers of serving the interests of billionaires at the expense of working families. He said, “This is exactly why billionaires spend so much money on our elections,” he added, calling the bill a massive transfer of wealth to those who need it least. He added, “It steals from the hungry, cutting nutrition assistance for 40 million people, including 1 in 5 children nationwide. 300,000 New Yorkers could lose all or some of their SNAP benefits. And it steals from our future, ending investments in renewable energy that lower utility costs and protect the planet. The spoils of this plunder are trillions of dollars in tax cuts for the wealthiest 1%—a massive upward transfer of wealth for people who need it least.”

New York City Democratic mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani attempted to stall Donald Trump's ‘big beautiful bill’ and criticised it heavily claiming that it is one of the biggest heists in US history

'Biggest heist, robbery': Here's how Zohran Mamdani attempted to stop Trump's 'big beautiful bill' from being passed by US House

Day after Indian PM Modi received the highest honour in Ghana, Trinidad and Tobago proposes a similar gesture. Dev Duggal from the Ministry of Agriculture mentioned, “I am very happy that Trinidad and Tobago has decided to award PM Modi with the highest award. It is done after a lot of consideration.”&nbsp;Talking to news agency ANI, Duggal said, “This award will bring both countries together, and both countries respect each other. 50% of the population of Trinidad and Tobago is of Indian origin and this visit is beneficial for both countries.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Port of Spain | On PM Modi to be conferred with Trinidad and Tobago&#39;s highest award, Former Permanent Secretary at Trinidad and Tobago&#39;s Ministry of Agriculture, Dev Duggal says, &quot;... I am very happy that Trinidad and Tobago has decided to award PM Modi with the highest… <a href="https://t.co/hWAmALwaBC">pic.twitter.com/hWAmALwaBC</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1940854334474145846?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 3, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

He added, "We are very proud that PM Modi is visiting Trinidad and Tobago. This visit has been anticipated for a long time. I was in the Ministry of Agriculture in the Government of Trinidad and Tobago, and then I served as the advisor to the minister. PM Modi's previous visit was 22 years ago when he came to attend the World Hindu Conference, not as the PM of India. This visit carries a different stature."&nbsp;On Wednesday (July 2), PM Modi was felicitated with the highest honour in Ghana. He was conferred with ‘The Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana’ by President John Dramani Mahama. “It is a matter of pride and honour to be felicitated with. I would like to thank the president and the people of Ghana with all my heart. I would like to receive this award on behalf of 140 crore Indians,” said PM Modi.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-a-pillar-of-strength-a-strong-india-will-contribute-to-more-stable-and-prosperous-world-pm-modi-1751538497309">India a pillar of strength, a strong India will contribute to more stable and prosperous world: PM Modi</a>&nbsp;Talking about the award, he added, “This honour is also a responsibility; to keep working towards a stronger India-Ghana friendship. India will always stand with the people of Ghana and continue to contribute as a trusted friend and development partner.”

Day after Indian PM Modi received the highest honour in Ghana, Trinidad and Tobago proposes a similar gesture.

Day after Indian PM Modi received the highest honour in Ghana, Trinidad and Tobago proposes a similar gesture. Dev Duggal from the Ministry of Agriculture mentioned, “I am very happy that Trinidad and Tobago has decided to award PM Modi with the highest award. It is done after a lot of consideration.” Talking to news agency ANI, Duggal said, “This award will bring both countries together, and both countries respect each other. 50% of the population of Trinidad and Tobago is of Indian origin and this visit is beneficial for both countries.”

Day after Indian PM Modi received the highest honour in Ghana, Trinidad and Tobago proposes a similar gesture.

Day after Ghana conferred PM Modi with highest honour, Trinidad and Tobago proposes similar gesture

Even as tech giant Elon Musk said that he is holding back in escalating tensions with United States President Donald Trump, the billionaire has dropped a bombshell response on a post on X that demanded the release of Epstein files. Musk's response came hours before the US House passed Trump's mega tax and spending bill - that Donald Trump has termed as ‘One Big Beautiful Bill’. An user on X shared a post urging the release of “the unredacted Epstein files,” to which the Tesla boss responded with a resounding “yes.” Elon Musk, during his tussle with Trump last month had claimed that the US president's name is present in the Epstein files. He later deleted his post and apologised for his remark, stating that “he went too far.” Now even as the US House passed the tax bill, Musk has been silent for hours, with no post on his X.&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250704/image-1751589049776.png"></figure>&nbsp;Musk's renewed campaign against the bill began when he declared that 'America Party' will be launched the day after the bill is passed. To this, Trump issued a threat of DOGE investigation on Musk and spoke about his deportation. However, this latest feud is not same as the previous one as Musk said he is holding his temptation back. While he has attacked the big beautiful bill and all US lawmakers supporting it, he has refrained from attacking the POTUS personally - something that he did last month. Here's a screenshot of his post from last month:&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250704/image-1751589431437.png"></figure>&nbsp;Last month, the row started after Musk expressed his vehement disapproval of Trump’s “Big, Beautiful Bill,” calling it a <a href="https://x.com/elonmusk/status/1929954109689606359?s=46">“disgusting abomination” </a>and encouraging people to “kill the bill.” Meanwhile, Trump maintained that the fall-out was prompted by <a href="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/posts/114632205177163456">Musk being upset over the removal of electric vehicle subsidies</a>—a provision that made Tesla vehicles more affordable.<h2>'Just plain wrong' to 'credit is due': Elon Musk seems confused</h2>In a post on X, Musk responded to a tweet criticising the president’s Truth Social post threatening to scrap federal subsidies received by his companies, writing that the remarks were: “Just plain wrong...So disappointing.” He also said that he is tempted to escalate the situation but he won't. The billionaire also made a post urging people to follow a meme account posting screenshots of old tweets by GOP lawmakers criticising the national debt alongside posts hailing the passage of tax and spending bill. However, after a few hours, when Trump shared a post about a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas to stop the war in Gaza, the tech giant wrote: “Credit where credit is due...[Trump] has successfully resolved several serious conflicts around the world.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Credit where credit is due. <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a> has successfully resolved several serious conflicts around the world. <a href="https://t.co/0EyHHy5Gfo">pic.twitter.com/0EyHHy5Gfo</a>&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1940280279631110257?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 2, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>What is Epstein Files?</h2>The Epstein files are a collection of legal documents, court records, and investigative materials connected to Jeffrey Epstein, a wealthy financier accused of operating a sex trafficking ring involving underage girls. These files have drawn international attention due to Epstein’s links to high-profile figures in politics, business, and entertainment. A major part of the Epstein files comes from court cases, a defamation lawsuit filed by Virginia Giuffre, one of Epstein’s most outspoken accusers. In early 2024, hundreds of pages of these court documents were unsealed, revealing names, emails, and testimonies involving powerful individuals.

 Elon Musk said that he is holding back in escalating tensions with United States President Donald Trump amid feud over ‘one big beautiful bill’ but he has now given his nod to a post demanding the release of Epstein Files 

Even as tech giant Elon Musk said that he is holding back in escalating tensions with United States President Donald Trump, the billionaire has dropped a bombshell response on a post on X that demanded the release of Epstein files. Musk's response came hours before the US House passed Trump's mega tax and spending bill - that Donald Trump has termed as ‘One Big Beautiful Bill’. An user on X shared a post urging the release of “the unredacted Epstein files,” to which the Tesla boss responded with a resounding “yes.” Elon Musk, during his tussle with Trump last month had claimed that the US president's name is present in the Epstein files. He later deleted his post and apologised for his remark, stating that “he went too far.” Now even as the US House passed the tax bill, Musk has been silent for hours, with no post on his X. Musk's renewed campaign against the bill began when he declared that 'America Party' will be launched the day after the bill is passed. To this, Trump issued a threat of DOGE investigation on Musk and spoke about his deportation. However, this latest feud is not same as the previous one as Musk said he is holding his temptation back. While he has attacked the big beautiful bill and all US lawmakers supporting it, he has refrained from attacking the POTUS personally - something that he did last month. Here's a screenshot of his post from last month: Last month, the row started after Musk expressed his vehement disapproval of Trump’s “Big, Beautiful Bill,” calling it a “disgusting abomination” and encouraging people to “kill the bill.” Meanwhile, Trump maintained that the fall-out was prompted by Musk being upset over the removal of electric vehicle subsidies—a provision that made Tesla vehicles more affordable. 'Just plain wrong' to 'credit is due': Elon Musk seems confused In a post on X, Musk responded to a tweet criticising the president’s Truth Social post threatening to scrap federal subsidies received by his companies, writing that the remarks were: “Just plain wrong...So disappointing.” He also said that he is tempted to escalate the situation but he won't. The billionaire also made a post urging people to follow a meme account posting screenshots of old tweets by GOP lawmakers criticising the national debt alongside posts hailing the passage of tax and spending bill. However, after a few hours, when Trump shared a post about a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas to stop the war in Gaza, the tech giant wrote: “Credit where credit is due...[Trump] has successfully resolved several serious conflicts around the world.”

Elon Musk said that he is holding back in escalating tensions with United States President Donald Trump amid feud over ‘one big beautiful bill’ but he has now given his nod to a post demanding the release of Epstein Files&nbsp;

Elon Musk drops one-word answer on post demanding release of Epstein files amid feud with Trump over 'big beautiful bill'

US President Donald Trump, in his initial reaction after the 'big beautiful bill' was passed in the House, said, 'biggest tax cut in history, great for security, great on the southern border'. Ever since he assumed office for his second term earlier this year in January, the president has been extremely vocal about his immigration policy and cutting government spending. This bill has been the most crucial for him and his administration.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>: &quot;I think when you go over the bill, it was very easy to get them to a &#39;Yes.&#39; ... Biggest tax cut in history, great for security, great on the southern border ... we covered just about everything. Again, it&#39;s the biggest bill ever signed of its kind.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/0nfeQ5IDuo">pic.twitter.com/0nfeQ5IDuo</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1940882245482676660?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 3, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Talking to reporters, he said, "We are celebrating the biggest bill of its kind ever signed — and it's going to make this country into a rocket ship. It's going to be really great."He added, "I think when you go over the bill, it was very easy to get them to a 'Yes.' We won over the bill... the biggest tax cut in history, great for security, great on the southern border. Immigration is covered; we covered just about everything. Again, it's the biggest bill ever signed of its kind."&nbsp;The 'big beautiful bill' will allocate over $150 billion for the Trump administration to carry out mass deportation operations. About $75 billion will be spent on expanding the capacity of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention centre, and another $50 billion to be allocated for beefing up border security measures.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/another-magic-minute-speech-democratic-leader-jeffries-delays-house-vote-on-trump-s-big-beautiful-bill-1751559099269">Another 'magic minute' speech? Democratic Leader Jeffries's speech crosses '8 hours', delays vote on Trump's 'big, beautiful bill'</a>&nbsp;Before the bill was passed, Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries delivered a record speech went stretched over eight hours. This move comes as a protest against Trump's touted bill and in turn also delayed the voting procedure."Republicans are trying to jam this one, big, ugly bill down the throats of the American people. Leadership requires courage, conviction, compassion — and yet what we have seen from this administration and co-conspirators on the Republican side of the aisle is cruelty, chaos, and corruption," he said as emphasised the ramifications of the bill.&nbsp;The lower chamber voted 218 to 214 to approve the bill. President Trump will be signing the bill into law at 5 PM (EST) in a ceremony on July 4. &nbsp;

US President Donald Trump, in his initial reaction after the 'big beautiful bill' was passed in the House, said, 'biggest tax cut in history, great for security, great on the southern border'.

US President Donald Trump, in his initial reaction after the 'big beautiful bill' was passed in the House, said, 'biggest tax cut in history, great for security, great on the southern border'. Ever since he assumed office for his second term earlier this year in January, the president has been extremely vocal about his immigration policy and cutting government spending. This bill has been the most crucial for him and his administration.

US President Donald Trump, in his initial reaction after the 'big beautiful bill' was passed in the House, said, 'biggest tax cut in history, great for security, great on the southern border'.

'Going to make America into a rocket ship': Trump's first reaction after US House passes 'Big Beautiful Bill'

After concluding his Ghana visit, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives at Piarco International Airport, Port of Spain. He was received by Trinidad and Tobago PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar and her entire cabinet of thirty-eight ministers and four Members of Parliament.&nbsp;This will be PM Modi's first visit to the country as prime minister. He will be holding talks with Trinidad &amp; Tobago President Christine Carla Kangaloo and PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar. He was also given a Guard of Honour upon his arrival.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-this-is-also-a-responsibility-pm-modi-on-being-conferred-highest-honour-in-ghana-he-officer-of-the-order-of-the-star-of-ghana-1751496233944">'This is also a responsibility': PM Modi on being conferred highest honour in Ghana</a>&nbsp;Taking to his social media, PM Modi posted, “Sharing some glimpses from the welcome at Port of Spain. May the friendship between India and Trinidad &amp; Tobago continue to scale new heights in the times to come!”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Sharing some glimpses from the welcome at Port of Spain. May the friendship between India and Trinidad &amp; Tobago continue to scale new heights in the times to come! <a href="https://t.co/RkAW4pQBKw">pic.twitter.com/RkAW4pQBKw</a>&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1940885432197324901?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 3, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Talking to news agency ANI, Trinidad and Tobago's Ministry of Agriculture, Dev Duggal said, "I am very happy that Trinidad and Tobago has decided to award PM Modi with the highest award. It is done after a lot of consideration. This award will bring both countries together, and both countries respect each other. 50% of the population of Trinidad and Tobago is of Indian origin and this visit is beneficial for both countries."&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-a-pillar-of-strength-a-strong-india-will-contribute-to-more-stable-and-prosperous-world-pm-modi-1751538497309">India a pillar of strength, a strong India will contribute to more stable and prosperous world: PM Modi</a>&nbsp;He added, "We are very proud that PM Modi is visiting Trinidad and Tobago. This visit has been anticipated for a long time. I was in the Ministry of Agriculture in the Government of Trinidad and Tobago, and then I served as the advisor to the minister. PM Modi's previous visit was 22 years ago when he came to attend the World Hindu Conference, not as the PM of India. This visit carries a different stature."

After concluding his Ghana visit, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives at Piarco International Airport, Port of Spain.

After concluding his Ghana visit, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives at Piarco International Airport, Port of Spain. He was received by Trinidad and Tobago PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar and her entire cabinet of thirty-eight ministers and four Members of Parliament. This will be PM Modi's first visit to the country as prime minister. He will be holding talks with Trinidad & Tobago President Christine Carla Kangaloo and PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar. He was also given a Guard of Honour upon his arrival. Also read: 'This is also a responsibility': PM Modi on being conferred highest honour in Ghana Taking to his social media, PM Modi posted, “Sharing some glimpses from the welcome at Port of Spain. May the friendship between India and Trinidad & Tobago continue to scale new heights in the times to come!”

After concluding his Ghana visit, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives at Piarco International Airport, Port of Spain.

PM Modi arrives in Trinidad and Tobago; 38 ministers and 4 MPs welcome him in a grand gesture

Russia becomes the first country to recognise the Taliban government. This comes four years after the capital Kabul fell to the Taliban regime. On Thursday (July 3), the Ambassador of the Russian Federation, Dmitry Zhirnov, called on IEA-Foreign Minister Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi. During their meeting, he conveyed that the government officially recognises the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan.&nbsp;In a statement, the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs said, “We believe that the act of official recognition of the government of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan will give impetus to the development of productive bilateral cooperation between our countries in various fields."

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The Ambassador of the Russian Federation, Mr. Dmitry Zhirnov, called on IEA-Foreign Minister Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi. During the meeting, the Ambassador of Russian Federation officially conveyed his government’s decision to recognize the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, <a href="https://t.co/wCbJKpZYwm">pic.twitter.com/wCbJKpZYwm</a>&mdash; Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Afghanistan (@MoFA_Afg) <a href="https://twitter.com/MoFA_Afg/status/1940824370089545839?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 3, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

This decision comes amid the Taliban's latest crackdown on free speech. The new policy says Afghan news outlets need to run political pieces through the Political Programme Oversight Committee. It says, “Analysis must be approved by the official oversight committee before airing or publication.”&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taliban-bans-political-debate-in-afghanistan-media-amid-new-crackdown-on-free-speech-1751567299662">Taliban bans political debate in Afghanistan media amid new crackdown on free speech</a>&nbsp;The guidelines mention, “Recommendations or critiques directed at officials must be respectful, within legal frameworks, and free from defamation or distortion. Analysis must be evidence-based and not rely on unofficial sources."&nbsp;Ever since the Taliban took over in August 2021, the country has been implementing new laws that have been attacking human rights. Women's rights have been heavily targeted, be it education or even freedom of speech, among others.

Russia becomes the first country to recognise the Taliban government. This comes four years after the capital Kabul fell to the Taliban regime. 

Russia becomes the first country to recognise the Taliban government. This comes four years after the capital Kabul fell to the Taliban regime. On Thursday (July 3), the Ambassador of the Russian Federation, Dmitry Zhirnov, called on IEA-Foreign Minister Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi. During their meeting, he conveyed that the government officially recognises the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan. In a statement, the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs said, “We believe that the act of official recognition of the government of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan will give impetus to the development of productive bilateral cooperation between our countries in various fields."

Russia becomes the first country to recognise the Taliban government. This comes four years after the capital Kabul fell to the Taliban regime.&nbsp;

Russia becomes the 1st country to recognise Taliban government

The Republican-led US Congress narrowly passed Donald Trump's flagship 'Big Beautiful Bill' Thursday (July 3) after a marathon voting session on the package, which is set to slash social welfare programs and add more than $3 trillion to the national debt.&nbsp;The text, headlined by a $4.5 trillion renewal of the president's first-term tax cuts, was approved by the House of Representatives along party lines, delivering Trump the biggest legislative win of his second term.&nbsp;Before the bill was passed, Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries delivered a record speech went stretched over eight hours. This move comes as a protest against Trump's touted bill and, in turn, also delayed the voting procedure. “Republicans are trying to jam this one, big, ugly bill down the throats of the American people,” he said.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/another-magic-minute-speech-democratic-leader-jeffries-delays-house-vote-on-trump-s-big-beautiful-bill-1751559099269">Another 'magic minute' speech? Democratic Leader Jeffries's speech crosses '8 hours', delays vote on Trump's 'big, beautiful bill'</a>&nbsp;White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, in a statement, said, “President Trump has delivered more wins for the American people in two weeks than most Presidents do in four years! Republicans just passed the One Big, Beautiful Bill, which is the ultimate codification of the Make America Great Again agenda – the largest middle-class tax cut in history, permanent border security, massive military funding, restoring fiscal sanity, and so much more.”&nbsp;She added, "This is another incredible victory for America. Thank you to the Supreme Court for ruling on the side of law and order, and affirming the executive authority of the President. As we have said all along, lower-level judges cannot and should not dictate the national security interests of the United States from a bench in a random district court house. Mass deportations of illegal aliens shall, and will, continue — that is what the American people voted for! "&nbsp;The lower chamber voted 218 to 214 to approve the bill. President Trump will be signing the bill into law at 5 PM (EST) in a ceremony on July 4.

The Republican-led US Congress narrowly passed Donald Trump's flagship spending bill Thursday after a marathon voting session on the package, which is set to slash social welfare programs and add more than $3 trillion to the national debt.

The Republican-led US Congress narrowly passed Donald Trump's flagship 'Big Beautiful Bill' Thursday (July 3) after a marathon voting session on the package, which is set to slash social welfare programs and add more than $3 trillion to the national debt. The text, headlined by a $4.5 trillion renewal of the president's first-term tax cuts, was approved by the House of Representatives along party lines, delivering Trump the biggest legislative win of his second term. Before the bill was passed, Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries delivered a record speech went stretched over eight hours. This move comes as a protest against Trump's touted bill and, in turn, also delayed the voting procedure. “Republicans are trying to jam this one, big, ugly bill down the throats of the American people,” he said. Also read: Another 'magic minute' speech? Democratic Leader Jeffries's speech crosses '8 hours', delays vote on Trump's 'big, beautiful bill' White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, in a statement, said, “President Trump has delivered more wins for the American people in two weeks than most Presidents do in four years! Republicans just passed the One Big, Beautiful Bill, which is the ultimate codification of the Make America Great Again agenda – the largest middle-class tax cut in history, permanent border security, massive military funding, restoring fiscal sanity, and so much more.” She added, "This is another incredible victory for America. Thank you to the Supreme Court for ruling on the side of law and order, and affirming the executive authority of the President. As we have said all along, lower-level judges cannot and should not dictate the national security interests of the United States from a bench in a random district court house. Mass deportations of illegal aliens shall, and will, continue — that is what the American people voted for! " The lower chamber voted 218 to 214 to approve the bill. President Trump will be signing the bill into law at 5 PM (EST) in a ceremony on July 4.

The Republican-led US Congress narrowly passed Donald Trump's flagship spending bill Thursday after a marathon voting session on the package, which is set to slash social welfare programs and add more than $3 trillion to the national debt.

US House passes 'Big Beautiful Bill', Trump to sign it into law

In its latest move to suppress free speech, the Taliban has prohibited all political discussions in Afghanistan’s media, specifying in their crackdown that the rules apply to all types of political content in print, broadcast, digital, or social media. As per the new regulations that raise concerns about a return to the regime’s repressive past, Afghan media outlets now must get prior approval from the newly established Political Programme Oversight Committee before broadcasting or publishing any political material. “Analysis must be approved by the official oversight committee before airing or publication,” the new policy says.&nbsp;<h2>Committee to monitor political content</h2>&nbsp;According to the guidelines released by the Taliban’s Ministry of Information and Culture, the newly established committee will scrutinise all political content, conduct legal reviews, produce regular reports, and enforce sanctions against media outlets that fail to comply. The regulations, titled Management of Political Programmes in Afghanistan, cover all forms of political content across print, broadcast, digital, and social media platforms.&nbsp;“Recommendations or critiques directed at officials must be respectful, within legal frameworks, and free from defamation or distortion. Analysis must be evidence-based and not rely on unofficial sources,” read the latest guidelines.&nbsp;<h2>Analysts barred from expressing views that contradict Taliban policy</h2>&nbsp;The Taliban has warned analysts against presenting views that go against its official policies and said it will hold hosts and producers responsible for any content that does not align with their outlook.Moreover, the analysts must carry identification cards issued by the Taliban’s Directorate of Broadcast Affairs and are barred from expressing any views that contradict official Taliban policy. Guest speakers, even from a pre-approved list, require individual approval before every show. &nbsp;“All analysis must be in accordance with Sharia law, the principles of the Islamic Emirate, and applicable national laws. No content should be anti-Islamic Emirate,” the Taliban said, warning media outlets that they could lose their licences if they violate the new regulations.&nbsp;<h2>‘New policy leaves no room for free press’</h2>&nbsp;“Deeply concerned by the Taliban’s latest attempt to weaponise the media for political control,” said Lotfullah Najafizada, an Afghan journalist. “This detailed, five-chapter policy leaves virtually no room for free press.”The Taliban said the policy aims to improve the quality of political analysis, uphold sharia principles, promote national unity and prevent harmful propaganda. “It will serve as an effective system for managing political media content in Afghanistan,” it said.The Afghanistan Journalists Support Organisation (AJSO), a non-profit organisation that operates to promote, support and institutionalise freedom of speech in Afghanistan, has condemned the new regulations and termed them a blatant violation of freedom of expression, and professional rights of journalists.

As per the new regulations that raise concerns about a return to the regime’s repressive past, Afghan media outlets now must get prior approval from the newly established Political Programme Oversight Committee before broadcasting or publishing any political material.

In its latest move to suppress free speech, the Taliban has prohibited all political discussions in Afghanistan’s media, specifying in their crackdown that the rules apply to all types of political content in print, broadcast, digital, or social media. As per the new regulations that raise concerns about a return to the regime’s repressive past, Afghan media outlets now must get prior approval from the newly established Political Programme Oversight Committee before broadcasting or publishing any political material. “Analysis must be approved by the official oversight committee before airing or publication,” the new policy says. Committee to monitor political content According to the guidelines released by the Taliban’s Ministry of Information and Culture, the newly established committee will scrutinise all political content, conduct legal reviews, produce regular reports, and enforce sanctions against media outlets that fail to comply. The regulations, titled Management of Political Programmes in Afghanistan, cover all forms of political content across print, broadcast, digital, and social media platforms. “Recommendations or critiques directed at officials must be respectful, within legal frameworks, and free from defamation or distortion. Analysis must be evidence-based and not rely on unofficial sources,” read the latest guidelines. Analysts barred from expressing views that contradict Taliban policy The Taliban has warned analysts against presenting views that go against its official policies and said it will hold hosts and producers responsible for any content that does not align with their outlook. Moreover, the analysts must carry identification cards issued by the Taliban’s Directorate of Broadcast Affairs and are barred from expressing any views that contradict official Taliban policy. Guest speakers, even from a pre-approved list, require individual approval before every show. “All analysis must be in accordance with Sharia law, the principles of the Islamic Emirate, and applicable national laws. No content should be anti-Islamic Emirate,” the Taliban said, warning media outlets that they could lose their licences if they violate the new regulations. ‘New policy leaves no room for free press’ “Deeply concerned by the Taliban’s latest attempt to weaponise the media for political control,” said Lotfullah Najafizada, an Afghan journalist. “This detailed, five-chapter policy leaves virtually no room for free press.” The Taliban said the policy aims to improve the quality of political analysis, uphold sharia principles, promote national unity and prevent harmful propaganda. “It will serve as an effective system for managing political media content in Afghanistan,” it said. The Afghanistan Journalists Support Organisation (AJSO), a non-profit organisation that operates to promote, support and institutionalise freedom of speech in Afghanistan, has condemned the new regulations and termed them a blatant violation of freedom of expression, and professional rights of journalists.

As per the new regulations that raise concerns about a return to the regime’s repressive past, Afghan media outlets now must get prior approval from the newly established Political Programme Oversight Committee before broadcasting or publishing any political material.

Taliban bans political debate in Afghanistan media amid new crackdown on free speech

It has been hours hours since Representative Hakeem Jeffries, the New York Democrat and minority leader, has been giving his speech in the US House on Thursday, with an aim to delay voting on President Donald Trump's 'Big, Beautiful Bill' on tax and spending. Jeffries has been continuing his marathon speech, opposing Republican's signature legislation carrying Trump's domestic agenda.He even began his speech by saying that he was "planning to take my sweet time” with his speech. Allotted 60 seconds, Jeffries was making use of his prerogative as a leader to stretch his allotted time, and took far longer than that, in a house tradition "magic minute".Trump has earlier said that he wants to sign the bill by July 4. However, Jeffries has no chance of stopping the bill even if he delays the voting.Jeffries in his speech, said, "Republicans are trying to jam this one, big, ugly bill down the throats of the American people,” urging lawmakers to vote against it.Further, the speech mainly focuses on the ramifications of spending cuts to social safety programs, laying out stories of vulnerable Americans who might be affected by its Medicaid cuts.“Leadership requires courage, conviction, compassion — and yet what we have seen from this administration and co-conspirators on the Republican side of the aisle is cruelty, chaos, and corruption,” he said, adding that the bill was “an extraordinary assault on the health care of the American people.”US House Speaker Mike Johnson was likely to address the chamber once Jeffries' speech ends. However, Johnson also has unlimited time, but earlier, he told reporters that he expected his speech would be shorter than Jeffries.'Magic Minute Speech'If democratic leader wants to set a record of a magic minute, he still has to continue for one more hour. Representative Kevin McCarthy of California, then the Republican leader, spoke for more than eight hours to delay a vote on a $2 trillion Democratic bill in 2021.They did this with a motive to strengthen the social safety net and fight climate change.

He even began his speech by saying that he was "planning to take my sweet time” with his speech. Allotted 60 seconds, Jeffries was making use of his prerogative as a leader to stretch his allotted time, and took far longer than that, in a house tradition "magic minute".

It has been hours hours since Representative Hakeem Jeffries, the New York Democrat and minority leader, has been giving his speech in the US House on Thursday, with an aim to delay voting on President Donald Trump's 'Big, Beautiful Bill' on tax and spending. Jeffries has been continuing his marathon speech, opposing Republican's signature legislation carrying Trump's domestic agenda. He even began his speech by saying that he was "planning to take my sweet time” with his speech. Allotted 60 seconds, Jeffries was making use of his prerogative as a leader to stretch his allotted time, and took far longer than that, in a house tradition "magic minute". Trump has earlier said that he wants to sign the bill by July 4. However, Jeffries has no chance of stopping the bill even if he delays the voting. Jeffries in his speech, said, "Republicans are trying to jam this one, big, ugly bill down the throats of the American people,” urging lawmakers to vote against it. Further, the speech mainly focuses on the ramifications of spending cuts to social safety programs, laying out stories of vulnerable Americans who might be affected by its Medicaid cuts. “Leadership requires courage, conviction, compassion — and yet what we have seen from this administration and co-conspirators on the Republican side of the aisle is cruelty, chaos, and corruption,” he said, adding that the bill was “an extraordinary assault on the health care of the American people.” US House Speaker Mike Johnson was likely to address the chamber once Jeffries' speech ends. However, Johnson also has unlimited time, but earlier, he told reporters that he expected his speech would be shorter than Jeffries. 'Magic Minute Speech' If democratic leader wants to set a record of a magic minute, he still has to continue for one more hour. Representative Kevin McCarthy of California, then the Republican leader, spoke for more than eight hours to delay a vote on a $2 trillion Democratic bill in 2021. They did this with a motive to strengthen the social safety net and fight climate change.

He even began his speech by saying that he was "planning to take my sweet time” with his speech. Allotted 60 seconds, Jeffries was making use of his prerogative as a leader to stretch his allotted time, and took far longer than that, in a house tradition "magic minute".

Another 'magic minute' speech? Democratic Leader Jeffries's speech crosses '8 hours', delays vote on Trump's 'big, beautiful bill'

As Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, the New York Democrat and minority leader crossed eight hours of a marathon speech on Thursday (July 3), he invoked a rarely used House procedure, known as "magic minute". Jeffries spoke for so long to protest against President Donald Trump's "Big, Beautiful Bill" and delay the House voting.He even began his speech by saying that he was "planning to take my sweet time” with his speech. Allotted 60 seconds, Jeffries was making use of his prerogative as a leader to stretch his allotted time, and took far longer than that, in a house tradition "magic minute".The democratic leader started his speech at 4: 53 am ET and is still on with his speech, making it one of the longest in recent history. However, not much people are currently present in the chamber now, hence Jeffries is mostly addressing the empty chamber, but is still being cheered by the Democrats.<h2>What is 'magic minute'?</h2>The "magic minute", an informal House rule and a tradition that allows House leaders to speak for as long as they want after a floor debate concludes. This permits the House leader to turn their seconds of speech into a longer period of time.However, it still remains unclear for how long Jeffries is planning to speak. If he wants to break the record created by former Rep. Kevin McCarthy, he needs to speak beyond 1:26 pm ET.In 2021, Kevin, then House Republican leader, spoke for a record-setting eight hours and 32 minutes as he was protesting Joe Biden's signature domestic policy legislation. However, it still passed when he ceded the floor.Trump has earlier said that he wants to sign the bill by July 4. However, Jeffries has no chance of stopping the bill even if he delays the voting.US House Speaker Mike Johnson was likely to address the chamber once Jeffries' speech ends. However, Johnson also has unlimited time, but earlier, he told reporters that he expected his speech would be shorter than Jeffries.&nbsp;

 If Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries wants to break the record created by former Rep. Kevin McCarthy, he needs to speak beyond 1:26 pm ET.

As Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, the New York Democrat and minority leader crossed eight hours of a marathon speech on Thursday (July 3), he invoked a rarely used House procedure, known as "magic minute". Jeffries spoke for so long to protest against President Donald Trump's "Big, Beautiful Bill" and delay the House voting. He even began his speech by saying that he was "planning to take my sweet time” with his speech. Allotted 60 seconds, Jeffries was making use of his prerogative as a leader to stretch his allotted time, and took far longer than that, in a house tradition "magic minute". The democratic leader started his speech at 4: 53 am ET and is still on with his speech, making it one of the longest in recent history. However, not much people are currently present in the chamber now, hence Jeffries is mostly addressing the empty chamber, but is still being cheered by the Democrats. What is 'magic minute'? The "magic minute", an informal House rule and a tradition that allows House leaders to speak for as long as they want after a floor debate concludes. This permits the House leader to turn their seconds of speech into a longer period of time. However, it still remains unclear for how long Jeffries is planning to speak. If he wants to break the record created by former Rep. Kevin McCarthy, he needs to speak beyond 1:26 pm ET. In 2021, Kevin, then House Republican leader, spoke for a record-setting eight hours and 32 minutes as he was protesting Joe Biden's signature domestic policy legislation. However, it still passed when he ceded the floor. Trump has earlier said that he wants to sign the bill by July 4. However, Jeffries has no chance of stopping the bill even if he delays the voting. US House Speaker Mike Johnson was likely to address the chamber once Jeffries' speech ends. However, Johnson also has unlimited time, but earlier, he told reporters that he expected his speech would be shorter than Jeffries.

&nbsp;If Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries wants to break the record created by former Rep. Kevin McCarthy, he needs to speak beyond 1:26 pm ET.

What is ‘magic minute'? Know as Democrat Jeffries makes last attempt to hang up Trump's 'Big Beautiful Bill' - EXPLAINED

White House envoy Steve Witkoff is planning to meet Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in Oslo next week to restart nuclear talks, according to two sources familiar with the discussions. The sources said that a final date for the meeting has not been set, and neither has there been any official confirmation of the engagement. But if the meeting takes place, it would be the first direct talks since President Donald Trump ordered an unprecedented military strike on Iran’s nuclear facilities last month. “We have no travel announcements at this time,” a White House official told Axios, while the Iranian mission to the UN also declined any comment. Witkoff and Araghchi have been in direct contact during and since the 12-day war between Israel and Iran, which ended in a US-brokered ceasefire, according to the sources. Officials from Oman and Qatar have also been mediating between the two sides.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Iranians were reluctant to engage with Washington after the US strikes, but that position has gradually softened.&nbsp;<h2>Nuclear stockpile, IAEA inspections to be key Issues</h2>&nbsp;The key issue in any talks will be Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium, which includes 400 kilogrammes enriched to 60%. Israeli and US officials claim that the material is currently “sealed off from the outside” inside the three nuclear sites—the enrichment facilities at Natanz and Fordow, and the underground tunnels at Isfahan—attacked in the joint strikes.&nbsp;Iran is unable to access the stockpile for now due to damage, but it could be recovered once the rubble is cleared.Iran announced earlier this week that it has started implementing a new law passed by parliament that suspends all cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Iran committed to NPT, says Aragchi</h2>&nbsp;However, Araghchi wrote on X on Thursday that Iran remains committed to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty and its Safeguards Agreement.“In accordance with the new legislation by [parliament], sparked by the unlawful attacks against our nuclear facilities by Israel and the US, our cooperation with the IAEA will be channeled through Iran’s Supreme National Security Council for obvious safety and security reasons,” he wrote.

Witkoff and Araghchi have been in direct contact during and since the 12-day war between Israel and Iran, which ended in a US-brokered ceasefire, according to the sources. Officials from Oman and Qatar have also been mediating between the two sides.

White House envoy Steve Witkoff is planning to meet Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in Oslo next week to restart nuclear talks, according to two sources familiar with the discussions. The sources said that a final date for the meeting has not been set, and neither has there been any official confirmation of the engagement. But if the meeting takes place, it would be the first direct talks since President Donald Trump ordered an unprecedented military strike on Iran’s nuclear facilities last month. “We have no travel announcements at this time,” a White House official told Axios, while the Iranian mission to the UN also declined any comment. Witkoff and Araghchi have been in direct contact during and since the 12-day war between Israel and Iran, which ended in a US-brokered ceasefire, according to the sources. Officials from Oman and Qatar have also been mediating between the two sides. The Iranians were reluctant to engage with Washington after the US strikes, but that position has gradually softened. Nuclear stockpile, IAEA inspections to be key Issues The key issue in any talks will be Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium, which includes 400 kilogrammes enriched to 60%. Israeli and US officials claim that the material is currently “sealed off from the outside” inside the three nuclear sites—the enrichment facilities at Natanz and Fordow, and the underground tunnels at Isfahan—attacked in the joint strikes. Iran is unable to access the stockpile for now due to damage, but it could be recovered once the rubble is cleared. Iran announced earlier this week that it has started implementing a new law passed by parliament that suspends all cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Iran committed to NPT, says Aragchi However, Araghchi wrote on X on Thursday that Iran remains committed to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty and its Safeguards Agreement. “In accordance with the new legislation by [parliament], sparked by the unlawful attacks against our nuclear facilities by Israel and the US, our cooperation with the IAEA will be channeled through Iran’s Supreme National Security Council for obvious safety and security reasons,” he wrote.

Witkoff and Araghchi have been in direct contact during and since the 12-day war between Israel and Iran, which ended in a US-brokered ceasefire, according to the sources. Officials from Oman and Qatar have also been mediating between the two sides.

After military strikes, US planning to restart nuclear talks with Iran in Oslo next week: Report

Russian leader Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump were on a phone call, the Kremlin said on Thursday. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told Russian news agencies that the telephone conversation was “ongoing now”.&nbsp;Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi denied reports of Iran suspending cooperation with the UN nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), calling it "fake news".&nbsp;Click on the headlines for more&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-president-putin-on-a-phone-call-with-trump-says-kremlin-1751557433053">Russian President Putin on a phone call with Trump, says Kremlin</a>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250703/image-1751558005951.jpg?zoom=0.9&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Russian President Putin on a phone call with Trump, says Kremlin"></figure>&nbsp;Russian leader Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump were on a phone call, the Kremlin said on Thursday. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told Russian news agencies that the telephone conversation was “ongoing now”. It was the sixth publicly disclosed conversation between the two leaders this year. The call comes amid mounting scrutiny over US support for Ukraine, as the Pentagon confirmed a pause in some military aid shipments.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-fake-news-iran-denies-ending-iaea-cooperation-lashes-out-at-germany-for-supporting-israel-and-us-1751551200344">'Fake news': Iran denies ending cooperation with IAEA, lashes out at Germany for supporting Israel and US</a>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250703/image-1751551778763.png?rect=(0,0,1200,900)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="'Fake news': Iran denies ending cooperation with IAEA, lashes out at Germany for supporting Israel and US"></figure>&nbsp;A day after reports of Iran suspending cooperation with the UN nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi called it "fake news", saying that Tehran remains committed to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and has not ended cooperation with the IAEA.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/quadcopters-interceptors-and-drones-ukraine-signs-deal-with-us-firm-to-fight-against-russia-s-raging-war-what-all-does-it-include-1751553327556">'Quadcopters, interceptors and drones': Ukraine signs deal with US firm to fight against Russia's raging war - What all does it include?</a>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250703/image-1751553544549.png?rect=(0,0,1200,900)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="'Quadcopters, interceptors and drones': Ukraine signs deal with US firm to fight against Russia's raging war - What all does it include?"></figure>&nbsp;Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday (July 3) signed a drone deal with an American firm during his visit to Denmark, amid the ongoing war with Russia. This comes after the White House halted the delivery of some air defence interceptors and precision-guided bombs and missiles to Ukraine, citing that US weapons stocks are running low.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chicago-mass-shooting-4-killed-14-injured-after-gunman-opens-fire-on-crowd-what-we-know-1751540742884">Chicago mass shooting: 4 killed, 14 injured after gunman opens fire on crowd | What we know</a>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250703/image-1751541296645.jpg?rect=(0,0,1200,900)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Chicago mass shooting: 4 killed, 14 injured after gunman opens fire on crowd | What we know"></figure>&nbsp;Four people were killed and 14 others were injured in a mass shooting in Chicago on Wednesday (Jul 2) night, said police. The horrific incident took place outside a nightclub in the River North neighbourhood, on the 300 block of West Chicago Avenue. Reportedly, around 11 pm, a vehicle drove past the Artis Lounge, and three people opened fire on a crowd standing outside.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/politically-motivated-cyberattack-hacktivist-stole-data-of-2-5-mn-columbia-university-students-employees-1751548985458">Politically motivated cyberattack? 'Hacktivist' stole data of 2.5 mn Columbia University students, employees</a>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250703/image-1751549806061.png?rect=(0,0,1200,900)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Politically motivated cyberattack? 'Hacktivist' stole data of 2.5 mn Columbia University students, employees"></figure>&nbsp;More than two million people linked to Columbia University were attacked by a seasoned "hacktivist", who reportedly stole sensitive data from the students, applicants, and employees of the Ivy League University. The officials believe this cyberattack to be politically motivated.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-5-dead-many-missing-after-ferry-capsizes-off-bali-coast-rescue-ops-on-1751555789578">At least 5 dead, many missing after ferry capsizes off Bali coast, rescue ops on</a>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250703/image-1751556139059.jpg?zoom=1&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="At least 5 dead, many missing after ferry capsizes off Bali coast, rescue ops on"></figure>&nbsp;Five people are reported dead and many still missing after a ferry capsized overnight in rough seas off Indonesia’s resort island of Bali. Thirty-five of the 65 passengers on the boat were rescued, while the remaining 25 are missing. Many of them were found unconscious after drifting in choppy waters for hours, said the local police chief. The ferry was carrying 53 passengers, 12 crew members, and 22 vehicles, including 14 trucks, when it capsized shortly before midnight on Wednesday.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beaten-starved-and-tortured-kilmar-abrego-garcia-reveals-shocking-details-of-treatment-in-el-salvador-prison-1751551585111">Beaten, starved, and tortured: Kilmar Abrego Garcia reveals SHOCKING details of treatment in El Salvador prison</a>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250703/image-1751551861629.jpg?rect=(0,0,1200,900)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Beaten, starved, and tortured: Kilmar Abrego Garcia reveals SHOCKING details of treatment in El Salvador prison"></figure>&nbsp;Kilmar Abrego Garcia, who was mistakenly deported by the Trump administration in March, has revealed shocking details of treatment in the El Salvador prison after his return. Abrego Garcia returned to the United States on June 6. In a legal filing on Wednesday (Jul 2), he alleged that he was beaten, starved, and tortured after being sent to the El Salvador prison.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/viral-tsunami-rumour-is-hoax-says-japan-meteorological-agencyt-1751546760004">Viral tsunami rumour is hoax says Japan Meteorological Agency</a>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250703/image-1751550802738.jpg?rect=(0,0,1200,900)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Viral tsunami rumour is hoax says Japan Meteorological Agency"></figure>&nbsp;Japan's meteorological agency on Thursday put the rumours of an earthquake to rest by saying that it was all unscientific and a "hoax".Japan Meteorological Agency's Earthquake and Tsunami Observations Division said that it is impossible to predict the exact time, location or magnitude of an earthquake. Notably, the prediction of Ryo Tatsuki's Manga comic that “a crack will open up under the seabed between Japan and the Philippines” was gaining absurd mileage.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/coolie-first-look-poster-of-aamir-khan-as-dahaa-from-rajinikanth-s-upcoming-film-is-out-1751552925044">Coolie: First look poster of Aamir Khan as Dahaa from Rajinikanth's upcoming film is out</a>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250703/image-1751554107789.png?zoom=0.9&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Coolie: First look poster of Aamir Khan as Dahaa from Rajinikanth's upcoming film is out"></figure>&nbsp;Since the announcement that Bollywood star Aamir Khan will make his Tamil debut in Rajinikanth’s upcoming film Coolie, fans have been eagerly awaiting the first look poster, and now it’s here. Sun Pictures has unveiled a new poster from the film featuring Aamir Khan’s character, Dahaa.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-eng-shubman-gill-now-first-india-skipper-to-score-test-double-ton-in-england-surpassing-greats-like-kohli-and-ganguly-1751549669835">IND vs ENG: Shubman Gill does what even Kohli couldn't do, joins elite list of visiting skippers</a>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250703/image-1751549762067.jpg?rect=(0,120,1440,1080)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="IND vs ENG: Shubman Gill does what even Kohli couldn't do, joins elite list of visiting skippers"></figure>&nbsp;India Test skipper Shubman Gill has become the first Indian skipper to score a double ton in Tests against England in England. He reached the milestone on day 2 (Jul 3) of the ongoing second Test at Edgbaston in Birmingham. Overall, Gill is also only the third Indian player ever to score a Test double ton in England behind Sunil Gavaskar (in 1979) and Rahul Dravid (in 2002). Among all visiting teams, Gill's only seventh skipper to score a Test double ton against England in England.&nbsp;

Stay updated with our selection of the top international stories, delivering essential news and analysis from across the world to keep you in the loop.

Russian leader Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump were on a phone call, the Kremlin said on Thursday. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told Russian news agencies that the telephone conversation was “ongoing now”. Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi denied reports of Iran suspending cooperation with the UN nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), calling it "fake news". Click on the headlines for more Russian President Putin on a phone call with Trump, says Kremlin Russian leader Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump were on a phone call, the Kremlin said on Thursday. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told Russian news agencies that the telephone conversation was “ongoing now”. It was the sixth publicly disclosed conversation between the two leaders this year. The call comes amid mounting scrutiny over US support for Ukraine, as the Pentagon confirmed a pause in some military aid shipments. 'Fake news': Iran denies ending cooperation with IAEA, lashes out at Germany for supporting Israel and US A day after reports of Iran suspending cooperation with the UN nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi called it "fake news", saying that Tehran remains committed to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and has not ended cooperation with the IAEA. 'Quadcopters, interceptors and drones': Ukraine signs deal with US firm to fight against Russia's raging war - What all does it include? Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday (July 3) signed a drone deal with an American firm during his visit to Denmark, amid the ongoing war with Russia. This comes after the White House halted the delivery of some air defence interceptors and precision-guided bombs and missiles to Ukraine, citing that US weapons stocks are running low. Chicago mass shooting: 4 killed, 14 injured after gunman opens fire on crowd | What we know Four people were killed and 14 others were injured in a mass shooting in Chicago on Wednesday (Jul 2) night, said police. The horrific incident took place outside a nightclub in the River North neighbourhood, on the 300 block of West Chicago Avenue. Reportedly, around 11 pm, a vehicle drove past the Artis Lounge, and three people opened fire on a crowd standing outside. Politically motivated cyberattack? 'Hacktivist' stole data of 2.5 mn Columbia University students, employees More than two million people linked to Columbia University were attacked by a seasoned "hacktivist", who reportedly stole sensitive data from the students, applicants, and employees of the Ivy League University. The officials believe this cyberattack to be politically motivated. At least 5 dead, many missing after ferry capsizes off Bali coast, rescue ops on Five people are reported dead and many still missing after a ferry capsized overnight in rough seas off Indonesia’s resort island of Bali. Thirty-five of the 65 passengers on the boat were rescued, while the remaining 25 are missing. Many of them were found unconscious after drifting in choppy waters for hours, said the local police chief. The ferry was carrying 53 passengers, 12 crew members, and 22 vehicles, including 14 trucks, when it capsized shortly before midnight on Wednesday. Beaten, starved, and tortured: Kilmar Abrego Garcia reveals SHOCKING details of treatment in El Salvador prison Kilmar Abrego Garcia, who was mistakenly deported by the Trump administration in March, has revealed shocking details of treatment in the El Salvador prison after his return. Abrego Garcia returned to the United States on June 6. In a legal filing on Wednesday (Jul 2), he alleged that he was beaten, starved, and tortured after being sent to the El Salvador prison. Viral tsunami rumour is hoax says Japan Meteorological Agency Japan's meteorological agency on Thursday put the rumours of an earthquake to rest by saying that it was all unscientific and a "hoax".Japan Meteorological Agency's Earthquake and Tsunami Observations Division said that it is impossible to predict the exact time, location or magnitude of an earthquake. Notably, the prediction of Ryo Tatsuki's Manga comic that “a crack will open up under the seabed between Japan and the Philippines” was gaining absurd mileage. Coolie: First look poster of Aamir Khan as Dahaa from Rajinikanth's upcoming film is out Since the announcement that Bollywood star Aamir Khan will make his Tamil debut in Rajinikanth’s upcoming film Coolie, fans have been eagerly awaiting the first look poster, and now it’s here. Sun Pictures has unveiled a new poster from the film featuring Aamir Khan’s character, Dahaa. IND vs ENG: Shubman Gill does what even Kohli couldn't do, joins elite list of visiting skippers India Test skipper Shubman Gill has become the first Indian skipper to score a double ton in Tests against England in England. He reached the milestone on day 2 (Jul 3) of the ongoing second Test at Edgbaston in Birmingham. Overall, Gill is also only the third Indian player ever to score a Test double ton in England behind Sunil Gavaskar (in 1979) and Rahul Dravid (in 2002). Among all visiting teams, Gill's only seventh skipper to score a Test double ton against England in England.

Stay updated with our selection of the top international stories, delivering essential news and analysis from across the world to keep you in the loop.

Top 10 world news: Trump, Putin hold phone call; Iran denies ending cooperation with IAEA, and more

Russian President Vladimir Putin and President Donald Trump held a telephone conversation on Thursday and discussed the settlement of the Ukrainian conflict and the situation in the Middle East. Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov said Putin and Trump spoke for nearly an hour and had detailed discussions on Iran and the Middle East. The two leaders also agreed that they would keep talking to each other. Trump raised the issue of a ceasefire in the Ukraine War and a speedy end to hostilities, following which Putin stressed the Russian side’s readiness to continue negotiations. Putin said Russia will achieve its goal of removing root issues that led to the Ukraine conflict and told Trump that Russia will not step back from its goals in Ukraine. The Kremlin said that the two leaders didn’t talk about halting some US weapons deliveries to Ukraine.&nbsp;“Our president also said that Russia will achieve its goals, that is, the elimination of all the root causes that led to the current state of affairs, to the current confrontation. And Russia will not back down from these goals,” Ushakov said.&nbsp;<h2>Settle Iran conflict exclusively by diplomatic means, says Putin</h2>&nbsp;Putin also emphasised the importance of settling the Iran conflict and other issues in the Middle East exclusively by diplomatic means.“From the Russian side, the importance of settling all disputed issues, disagreements and conflictual situations be solved exclusively by politico-diplomatic means was stressed,” Ushakov told reporters after the call.&nbsp;The two leaders also touched upon the developments in Syria, and discussed a number of promising joint economic projects in energy and space exploration.&nbsp;<h2>Sixth call between Trump and Putin this year&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;It was the sixth publicly disclosed conversation between the two leaders this year. The call came amid mounting scrutiny over US support for Ukraine, as the Pentagon confirmed a pause in some military aid shipments to Kyiv. These include critical items such as air defence missiles and precision-guided artillery, temporarily held back while Washington reviews its global stockpile levels.&nbsp;&nbsp;The last known call between the two leaders was on 14 June, shortly after Israel launched airstrikes on Iran.&nbsp;This is the sixth time since the beginning of the year that the presidents have spoken over the phone. The first conversation after Trump's return to the presidency took place on February 12. It was the first contact between the leaders of Russia and the United States in three years. Then the heads of state talked over the phone on March 18. Putin supported Trump’s idea to impose a 30-day moratorium on strikes on the energy facilities, but Kiev has not joined the initiative.&nbsp;<h2>‘He may be offended,’ Putin told forum audience</h2>&nbsp;Earlier, Putin wrapped up his address at a forum, “Strong Ideas for Modern Times” at about 16:45 ahead of the schedule while sharing with the audience that he had to go and call Trump: “No good to keep him waiting—he may be offended.”&nbsp;Putin and Trump then spoke by phone on May 19 and June 4, shortly after direct Russian-Ukrainian talks in Istanbul. On June 14, Putin congratulated Trump on his birthday. Escalation in the Middle East, which began in those days, was also discussed.&nbsp;According to TASS calculations, during the previous presidential term, Trump spoke with Putin on average five times a year, including face-to-face meetings.&nbsp;Since Trump’s return to the presidency, both he and Putin have signalled a desire to reset US-Russia ties, which have been at historic lows due to the war in Ukraine. Earlier this week, Putin also held a separate call with French President Emmanuel Macron—their first direct communication in nearly three years—adding to the diplomatic activity around Ukraine.<h2>Zelensky hopes to speak with Trump ‘maybe tomorrow’</h2>&nbsp;Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky says he expects to have a telephone conversation with his US counterpart Donald Trump “maybe tomorrow” or in the next few days.&nbsp;Speaking at the opening of Denmark's EU Council Presidency alongside Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Zelesnky said he hopes "that maybe tomorrow... these days" he will speak about the suspended arms deliveries with US President Donald Trump.

 It was the sixth publicly disclosed conversation between the two leaders this year. The call comes amid mounting scrutiny over US support for Ukraine, as the Pentagon confirmed a pause in some military aid shipments. 

Russian President Vladimir Putin and President Donald Trump held a telephone conversation on Thursday and discussed the settlement of the Ukrainian conflict and the situation in the Middle East. Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov said Putin and Trump spoke for nearly an hour and had detailed discussions on Iran and the Middle East. The two leaders also agreed that they would keep talking to each other. Trump raised the issue of a ceasefire in the Ukraine War and a speedy end to hostilities, following which Putin stressed the Russian side’s readiness to continue negotiations. Putin said Russia will achieve its goal of removing root issues that led to the Ukraine conflict and told Trump that Russia will not step back from its goals in Ukraine. The Kremlin said that the two leaders didn’t talk about halting some US weapons deliveries to Ukraine. “Our president also said that Russia will achieve its goals, that is, the elimination of all the root causes that led to the current state of affairs, to the current confrontation. And Russia will not back down from these goals,” Ushakov said. Settle Iran conflict exclusively by diplomatic means, says Putin Putin also emphasised the importance of settling the Iran conflict and other issues in the Middle East exclusively by diplomatic means. “From the Russian side, the importance of settling all disputed issues, disagreements and conflictual situations be solved exclusively by politico-diplomatic means was stressed,” Ushakov told reporters after the call. The two leaders also touched upon the developments in Syria, and discussed a number of promising joint economic projects in energy and space exploration. Sixth call between Trump and Putin this year It was the sixth publicly disclosed conversation between the two leaders this year. The call came amid mounting scrutiny over US support for Ukraine, as the Pentagon confirmed a pause in some military aid shipments to Kyiv. These include critical items such as air defence missiles and precision-guided artillery, temporarily held back while Washington reviews its global stockpile levels. The last known call between the two leaders was on 14 June, shortly after Israel launched airstrikes on Iran. This is the sixth time since the beginning of the year that the presidents have spoken over the phone. The first conversation after Trump's return to the presidency took place on February 12. It was the first contact between the leaders of Russia and the United States in three years. Then the heads of state talked over the phone on March 18. Putin supported Trump’s idea to impose a 30-day moratorium on strikes on the energy facilities, but Kiev has not joined the initiative. ‘He may be offended,’ Putin told forum audience Earlier, Putin wrapped up his address at a forum, “Strong Ideas for Modern Times” at about 16:45 ahead of the schedule while sharing with the audience that he had to go and call Trump: “No good to keep him waiting—he may be offended.” Putin and Trump then spoke by phone on May 19 and June 4, shortly after direct Russian-Ukrainian talks in Istanbul. On June 14, Putin congratulated Trump on his birthday. Escalation in the Middle East, which began in those days, was also discussed. According to TASS calculations, during the previous presidential term, Trump spoke with Putin on average five times a year, including face-to-face meetings. Since Trump’s return to the presidency, both he and Putin have signalled a desire to reset US-Russia ties, which have been at historic lows due to the war in Ukraine. Earlier this week, Putin also held a separate call with French President Emmanuel Macron—their first direct communication in nearly three years—adding to the diplomatic activity around Ukraine. Zelensky hopes to speak with Trump ‘maybe tomorrow’ Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky says he expects to have a telephone conversation with his US counterpart Donald Trump “maybe tomorrow” or in the next few days. Speaking at the opening of Denmark's EU Council Presidency alongside Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Zelesnky said he hopes "that maybe tomorrow... these days" he will speak about the suspended arms deliveries with US President Donald Trump.

&nbsp;It was the sixth publicly disclosed conversation between the two leaders this year. The call comes amid mounting scrutiny over US support for Ukraine, as the Pentagon confirmed a pause in some military aid shipments.&nbsp;

Russia will not back down from its goals in Ukraine, Putin tells Trump in phone call

Five people are reported dead and many still missing after a ferry capsized overnight in rough seas off Indonesia’s resort island of Bali. Thirty-five of the 65 passengers on the boat were rescued, while the remaining 25 are missing. Many of them were found unconscious after drifting in choppy waters for hours, said the local police chief. The ferry was carrying 53 passengers, 12 crew members, and 22 vehicles, including 14 trucks, when it capsized shortly before midnight on Wednesday. The National Search and Rescue Agency said that the ferry was going from Banyuwangi on Java’s east coast to Bali. “The ferry KMP Tunu Pratama Jaya sank about 25 minutes after weighing anchor,” the agency said. The cause of the capsize is not yet known.&nbsp;“The ship is fully submerged, so there is a possibility that there are people inside. But right now we are focusing on the surface of the water first,” said Nanang Sigit, head of Surabaya search and rescue.&nbsp;“For today’s search we are focusing on searching on the water, as the initial victims were found in the water between the location of the accident toward Gilimanuk port,” Sigit said in a statement Thursday morning.Relatives of the passengers arrived at the departure port after getting news of the disaster. Many cried for their loved ones as they sought help from local authorities.&nbsp;<h2>Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto orders immediate emergency response</h2>&nbsp;Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, who was in Saudi Arabia, ordered an immediate emergency response, cabinet secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya said.The cabinet secretary said the boat likely capsized due to “bad weather”. However, a ferry operator said the vessel had reported issues with the engine shortly before it sank, local media reported.The transport ministry has said that all passengers were Indonesian and no foreigner was involved in the accident.&nbsp;Strong waves as high as 2 metres and darkness hampered the search and rescue operation overnight, but improved sea and weather conditions in the morning made it easier to find more missing people.“The ferry could not be contacted via radio from the beginning. Then it could be contacted by other ships from the same company,” Sigit said.&nbsp;Four survivors saved themselves by using the ferry’s lifeboat and were found in the water early on Thursday, the search agency said.&nbsp;Ferry tragedies are common in Indonesia, an archipelago of over 17,000 islands where ferries are often used as transport and safety regulations are lax. The ferry from Java to Bali takes about an hour.&nbsp;In 2018, more than 150 people were killed after a ferry sank in one of the world’s deepest lakes on the island of Sumatra.

The ferry was carrying 53 passengers, 12 crew members, and 22 vehicles, including 14 trucks, when it capsized shortly before midnight on Wednesday. The National Search and Rescue Agency said that the ferry was going from Banyuwangi on Java’s east coast to Bali.

Five people are reported dead and many still missing after a ferry capsized overnight in rough seas off Indonesia’s resort island of Bali. Thirty-five of the 65 passengers on the boat were rescued, while the remaining 25 are missing. Many of them were found unconscious after drifting in choppy waters for hours, said the local police chief. The ferry was carrying 53 passengers, 12 crew members, and 22 vehicles, including 14 trucks, when it capsized shortly before midnight on Wednesday. The National Search and Rescue Agency said that the ferry was going from Banyuwangi on Java’s east coast to Bali. “The ferry KMP Tunu Pratama Jaya sank about 25 minutes after weighing anchor,” the agency said. The cause of the capsize is not yet known. “The ship is fully submerged, so there is a possibility that there are people inside. But right now we are focusing on the surface of the water first,” said Nanang Sigit, head of Surabaya search and rescue. “For today’s search we are focusing on searching on the water, as the initial victims were found in the water between the location of the accident toward Gilimanuk port,” Sigit said in a statement Thursday morning. Relatives of the passengers arrived at the departure port after getting news of the disaster. Many cried for their loved ones as they sought help from local authorities. Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto orders immediate emergency response Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, who was in Saudi Arabia, ordered an immediate emergency response, cabinet secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya said. The cabinet secretary said the boat likely capsized due to “bad weather”. However, a ferry operator said the vessel had reported issues with the engine shortly before it sank, local media reported. The transport ministry has said that all passengers were Indonesian and no foreigner was involved in the accident. Strong waves as high as 2 metres and darkness hampered the search and rescue operation overnight, but improved sea and weather conditions in the morning made it easier to find more missing people. “The ferry could not be contacted via radio from the beginning. Then it could be contacted by other ships from the same company,” Sigit said. Four survivors saved themselves by using the ferry’s lifeboat and were found in the water early on Thursday, the search agency said. Ferry tragedies are common in Indonesia, an archipelago of over 17,000 islands where ferries are often used as transport and safety regulations are lax. The ferry from Java to Bali takes about an hour. In 2018, more than 150 people were killed after a ferry sank in one of the world’s deepest lakes on the island of Sumatra.

The ferry was carrying 53 passengers, 12 crew members, and 22 vehicles, including 14 trucks, when it capsized shortly before midnight on Wednesday. The National Search and Rescue Agency said that the ferry was going from Banyuwangi on Java’s east coast to Bali.

At least 5 dead, many missing after ferry capsizes off Bali coast, rescue ops on

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday (July 3) signed a drone deal with an American firm during his visit to Denmark, amid the ongoing war with Russia. This comes after the White House halted the delivery of some air defence interceptors and precision-guided bombs and missiles to Ukraine, citing that US weapons stocks are running low.Ukraine and Denmark reached an agreement on Ukrainian-American cooperation in drone production, including interceptor drones, which Zelensky called "a crystal clear priority.""We have signed an agreement with the robust American company Swift Beat, and it foresees hundreds of thousands of drones this year alone, with the potential to significantly scale up production in the coming year," the Ukrainian president wrote in a post on X.<h2>What does it include?</h2>According to the deal, the US firm will be providing Ukraine with interceptors to destroy enemy drones and missiles, quadcopters for reconnaissance and fire adjustment, and long-range strike drones.These defence equipment will be produced in much greater numbers to help Ukraine achieve its defense goals and protect the lives of Ukrainians, Zelensky said."Today, we will continue our work in Denmark, and on new agreements of this kind — focused on joint production, joint development, and joint defense. I thank everyone who is helping," he added.He further stressed that there are two urgent issues we must resolve now, adding that both are tied to domestic arms production financing in Ukraine. "We hope to reach an understanding with the EU."On Wednesday, the White House after halting the delivery of some air defence interceptors to Ukraine, explained that the decision was taken to put "America's interest first" following a Department of Defense review of US "military support and assistance to other countries".This comes at a time when Ukraine is facing some of the largest missile and drone attacks from Russia since the beginning of the war.

Ukraine and Denmark reached an agreement on Ukrainian-American cooperation in drone production, including interceptor drones, which Zelensky called "a crystal clear priority."

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday (July 3) signed a drone deal with an American firm during his visit to Denmark, amid the ongoing war with Russia. This comes after the White House halted the delivery of some air defence interceptors and precision-guided bombs and missiles to Ukraine, citing that US weapons stocks are running low. Ukraine and Denmark reached an agreement on Ukrainian-American cooperation in drone production, including interceptor drones, which Zelensky called "a crystal clear priority." "We have signed an agreement with the robust American company Swift Beat, and it foresees hundreds of thousands of drones this year alone, with the potential to significantly scale up production in the coming year," the Ukrainian president wrote in a post on X. What does it include? According to the deal, the US firm will be providing Ukraine with interceptors to destroy enemy drones and missiles, quadcopters for reconnaissance and fire adjustment, and long-range strike drones. These defence equipment will be produced in much greater numbers to help Ukraine achieve its defense goals and protect the lives of Ukrainians, Zelensky said. "Today, we will continue our work in Denmark, and on new agreements of this kind — focused on joint production, joint development, and joint defense. I thank everyone who is helping," he added. He further stressed that there are two urgent issues we must resolve now, adding that both are tied to domestic arms production financing in Ukraine. "We hope to reach an understanding with the EU." On Wednesday, the White House after halting the delivery of some air defence interceptors to Ukraine, explained that the decision was taken to put "America's interest first" following a Department of Defense review of US "military support and assistance to other countries". This comes at a time when Ukraine is facing some of the largest missile and drone attacks from Russia since the beginning of the war.

Ukraine and Denmark reached an agreement on Ukrainian-American cooperation in drone production, including interceptor drones, which Zelensky called "a crystal clear priority."

'Quadcopters, interceptors and drones': Ukraine signs deal with US firm to fight against Russia's raging war - What all does it include?

Kilmar Abrego Garcia, who was mistakenly deported by the Trump administration in March, has revealed shocking details of treatment in the El Salvador prison after his return. Abrego Garcia returned to the United States on June 6. In a legal filing on Wednesday (Jul 2), he alleged that he was beaten, starved, and tortured after being sent to the El Salvador prison. Despite the court’s order, the Trump administration did not facilitate the return to the US. After several months, he was charged with human smuggling, after which he was released from Salvadoran custody and sent back to the US to face those charges.&nbsp;The Salvadoran anti-terrorism prison, CECOT, is known for gang violence and abuse. President Nayib Bukele said that prisoners would not be released from there, and there were few reports from inside. Abrego Garcia said that he suffered physical and mental abuse inside the prison. In a 40-page court filing, his lawyers detailed his time in prison.&nbsp;In May, the Trump administration told a judge that Abrego Garcia was “in good health” and had “gained weight”. However, Abrego Garcia said that he had lost 31 pounds in two weeks and witnessed violence in the prison.&nbsp;Responding to the claims, the Department of Homeland Security spokesperson said that the media was supporting a criminal. “The media’s sympathetic narrative about this criminal illegal gang member had completely fallen apart, yet they continued to peddle his sob story,” DHS spokeswoman Tricia McLaughlin said.&nbsp;<h2>What did Kilmar Abrego Garcia say in court filing?</h2>&nbsp;In his court filing, Kilmar Abrego Garcia, who was among the 200 men deported that day, said that he was the first person off a plane that landed in El Salvador on March 15. He described that bright lights and cameras were pointed at him as he was pushed into a bus in shackles. He was also hit in the head by Salvadoran guards, his lawyers wrote. At the prison, a guard said, “Welcome to CECOT. Whoever entered here didn't leave.”&nbsp;He was ordered to strip, change into prison clothes, and was hit to make him do it faster. He was also kicked in the legs and hit on the head and arms. His head was shaved, and he was taken to his cell while being struck with wooden batons. “By the following day, Plaintiff Abrego Garcia had visible bruises and lumps all over his body,” according to the filing.&nbsp;He was sharing a cell with 20 other people, and they were forced to kneel all night. The guards hit anyone who fell from exhaustion. He was also not granted permission to use the bathroom and soiled himself. They were barely given access to soap or water. The cell had no windows or mattresses, and the lights stayed on all hours of the day. He was told by the guards that he would be moved to cells with gang members. He saw fights inside those cells, and the guards did not intervene. He had no contact with any family or lawyer for over a month.

Despite the court’s order, the Trump administration did not facilitate the return to the US. After several months, he was charged with human smuggling, after which he was released from Salvadoran custody and sent back to the US to face those charges.

Kilmar Abrego Garcia, who was mistakenly deported by the Trump administration in March, has revealed shocking details of treatment in the El Salvador prison after his return. Abrego Garcia returned to the United States on June 6. In a legal filing on Wednesday (Jul 2), he alleged that he was beaten, starved, and tortured after being sent to the El Salvador prison. Despite the court’s order, the Trump administration did not facilitate the return to the US. After several months, he was charged with human smuggling, after which he was released from Salvadoran custody and sent back to the US to face those charges. The Salvadoran anti-terrorism prison, CECOT, is known for gang violence and abuse. President Nayib Bukele said that prisoners would not be released from there, and there were few reports from inside. Abrego Garcia said that he suffered physical and mental abuse inside the prison. In a 40-page court filing, his lawyers detailed his time in prison. In May, the Trump administration told a judge that Abrego Garcia was “in good health” and had “gained weight”. However, Abrego Garcia said that he had lost 31 pounds in two weeks and witnessed violence in the prison. Responding to the claims, the Department of Homeland Security spokesperson said that the media was supporting a criminal. “The media’s sympathetic narrative about this criminal illegal gang member had completely fallen apart, yet they continued to peddle his sob story,” DHS spokeswoman Tricia McLaughlin said. What did Kilmar Abrego Garcia say in court filing? In his court filing, Kilmar Abrego Garcia, who was among the 200 men deported that day, said that he was the first person off a plane that landed in El Salvador on March 15. He described that bright lights and cameras were pointed at him as he was pushed into a bus in shackles. He was also hit in the head by Salvadoran guards, his lawyers wrote. At the prison, a guard said, “Welcome to CECOT. Whoever entered here didn't leave.” He was ordered to strip, change into prison clothes, and was hit to make him do it faster. He was also kicked in the legs and hit on the head and arms. His head was shaved, and he was taken to his cell while being struck with wooden batons. “By the following day, Plaintiff Abrego Garcia had visible bruises and lumps all over his body,” according to the filing. He was sharing a cell with 20 other people, and they were forced to kneel all night. The guards hit anyone who fell from exhaustion. He was also not granted permission to use the bathroom and soiled himself. They were barely given access to soap or water. The cell had no windows or mattresses, and the lights stayed on all hours of the day. He was told by the guards that he would be moved to cells with gang members. He saw fights inside those cells, and the guards did not intervene. He had no contact with any family or lawyer for over a month.

Despite the court’s order, the Trump administration did not facilitate the return to the US. After several months, he was charged with human smuggling, after which he was released from Salvadoran custody and sent back to the US to face those charges.

Beaten, starved, and tortured: Kilmar Abrego Garcia reveals SHOCKING details of treatment in El Salvador prison

A day after reports of Iran suspending cooperation with the UN nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi called it "fake news", saying that Tehran remains committed to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and has not ended cooperation with the IAEA.In a post on X, Araghchi stated that Iran's cooperation with IAEA will be channeled through Iran's Supreme National Security Council."Fake news. Iran remains committed to the NPT and its Safeguards Agreement. In accordance with the new legislation by Majlis, sparked by the unlawful attacks against our nuclear facilities by Israel and the U.S., our cooperation with @iaeaorg will be channeled through Iran's Supreme National Security Council for obvious safety and security reasons," he wrote.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Fake news. Iran remains committed to the NPT and its Safeguards Agreement. In accordance with the new legislation by Majlis, sparked by the unlawful attacks against our nuclear facilities by Israel and the U.S., our cooperation with <a href="https://twitter.com/iaeaorg?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@iaeaorg</a> will be channeled through Iran&#39;s… <a href="https://t.co/i1995s6Z6m">https://t.co/i1995s6Z6m</a>&mdash; Seyed Abbas Araghchi (@araghchi) <a href="https://twitter.com/araghchi/status/1940751516115083395?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 3, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

This comes a day after state media reported that Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian has granted final approval to a law to suspend cooperation with the IAEA. "Masoud Pezeshkian promulgated the law suspending cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency," state TV said.This further follows after the recent US strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities including Esfahan, Fordow, and Natanz, during its 12-day war with Iran.The Iranian foreign minister in his post stressed that the "reality" is, "To Iranians, &nbsp;what truly "sends a devastating message" and destroys "a diplomatic solution" is very obvious."Targeting Germany for its support to Israel during the war, Araghchi continued, "Germany's explicit support for Israel's unlawful attack on Iran, including safeguarded nuclear sites, as "dirty work" carried out on behalf of the West.He added that Germany also shamefully supported the unlawful US attack against Iranian nuclear facilities, which "violated international law, the NPT, and the UN Charter."The foreign minister continued, "Germany's repudiation of its JCPOA commitments by openly demanding "zero enrichment" in Iran."Araghchi responded to the German Foreign Office's post which they shared on Wednesday, stating, "Iran's decision to suspend cooperation with @iaeaorg sends a devastating message: it eliminates any possibility of international oversight of the Iranian nuclear program, which is crucial for a diplomatic solution. #Iran must reverse this decision."Araghchi lambasted that Iranians were already put off by "Germany's Nazi-style backing of Genocide in Gaza, and its support for Sadam’s war on Iran" by providing materials for chemical weapons.He continued to slam Germany for supporting Iran, and said that the explicit German support for the bombing of Iran has "obliterated the notion that the German regime harbors anything but malice towards Iranians."

In a post on X, Iran's Foreign Minister Araghchi stated that Iran's cooperation with IAEA will be channeled through Iran's Supreme National Security Council.

A day after reports of Iran suspending cooperation with the UN nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi called it "fake news", saying that Tehran remains committed to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and has not ended cooperation with the IAEA. In a post on X, Araghchi stated that Iran's cooperation with IAEA will be channeled through Iran's Supreme National Security Council. "Fake news. Iran remains committed to the NPT and its Safeguards Agreement. In accordance with the new legislation by Majlis, sparked by the unlawful attacks against our nuclear facilities by Israel and the U.S., our cooperation with @iaeaorg will be channeled through Iran's Supreme National Security Council for obvious safety and security reasons," he wrote.

In a post on X, Iran's Foreign Minister Araghchi stated that Iran's cooperation with IAEA will be channeled through Iran's Supreme National Security Council.

'Fake news': Iran denies ending cooperation with IAEA, lashes out at Germany for supporting Israel and US

Japan's meteorological agency on Thursday put the rumours of an earthquake to rest by saying that it was all unscientific and a "hoax".Japan Meteorological Agency's Earthquake and Tsunami Observations Division said that it is impossible to predict the exact time, location or magnitude of an earthquake. Notably, the prediction of Ryo Tatsuki's Manga comic that “a crack will open up under the seabed between Japan and the Philippines” was gaining absurd mileage. It became more significant following scientists' predictions of tremors near the Tokoro Islands between Japan and the Philippines."Such spreading rumour is a hoax," said Ayataka Ebita Director of Earthquake and Tsunami Division of Japan Meteorological Agency. However, more than 900 earthquakes have shaken a remote island chain in southern Japan in the past two weeks. Though no major damage has been reported.“Seismic activity has been very active in the seas around the Tokara island chain since June 21,” said Ebita.&nbsp;The rumours in Hong Kong and other Asian cities of a major earthquake and a Tsunami in July have led to flight cancellations and reductions in service, affecting tourism.The rumours originated from Ryo Tatsuki's Japanese comic book “The future I saw.” It depicts a dream featuring a Tsunami. The rumours engulfed Hong Kong quickly. In June, Ryoichi Nomura Director General of Japan Meteorological Agency held a press conference to deny the rumour himself. He said that it is "unfortunate" that many people are affected by the disinformation, though he sympathised with the sense of unease that the people tend to develop toward something invisible. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The Meteorological Agency of Japan dismissed viral earthquake and tsunami predictions from a manga comic as a hoax, urging the public to ignore unscientific rumours. The speculation, fueled by seismic activity near the Tokara Islands, has caused tourism disruption across Japan.

Japan's meteorological agency on Thursday put the rumours of an earthquake to rest by saying that it was all unscientific and a "hoax".Japan Meteorological Agency's Earthquake and Tsunami Observations Division said that it is impossible to predict the exact time, location or magnitude of an earthquake. Notably, the prediction of Ryo Tatsuki's Manga comic that “a crack will open up under the seabed between Japan and the Philippines” was gaining absurd mileage. It became more significant following scientists' predictions of tremors near the Tokoro Islands between Japan and the Philippines. "Such spreading rumour is a hoax," said Ayataka Ebita Director of Earthquake and Tsunami Division of Japan Meteorological Agency. However, more than 900 earthquakes have shaken a remote island chain in southern Japan in the past two weeks. Though no major damage has been reported. “Seismic activity has been very active in the seas around the Tokara island chain since June 21,” said Ebita. The rumours in Hong Kong and other Asian cities of a major earthquake and a Tsunami in July have led to flight cancellations and reductions in service, affecting tourism. The rumours originated from Ryo Tatsuki's Japanese comic book “The future I saw.” It depicts a dream featuring a Tsunami. The rumours engulfed Hong Kong quickly. In June, Ryoichi Nomura Director General of Japan Meteorological Agency held a press conference to deny the rumour himself. He said that it is "unfortunate" that many people are affected by the disinformation, though he sympathised with the sense of unease that the people tend to develop toward something invisible.

Japan's Meteorological Agency dismissed viral earthquake and tsunami predictions from a manga comic as a "hoax," urging the public to ignore unscientific rumours. The speculation, fueled by seismic activity near the Tokara Islands, has caused tourism disruption across Japan.

Viral tsunami rumour is hoax says Japan Meteorological Agency

More than two million people linked to Columbia University were attacked by a seasoned "hacktivist", who reportedly stole sensitive data from the students, applicants, and employees of the Ivy League University. The officials believe this cyberattack to be politically motivated.This happened on June 24, when a digital activist knocked the Ivy League's systems offline for several hours, swiped social security numbers, citizenship status, university-issued ID numbers, application decisions, employee salaries, and other private records, according to a Bloomberg News report.The extracted documents allegedly included 2.5 million applications, which were decades old, along with financial aid packages, the outlet reported.Later, a university official told The New York Post that the sophisticated hacker appeared to target specific documents to advance their political agenda.The alleged hacker, who declined to reveal their identity to The Post, said they targeted the Manhattan university to find documents indicating the use of affirmative action in admissions, which was banned by the Supreme Court last year.Columbia University issued a statement, saying, "We immediately began an investigation with the assistance of leading cybersecurity experts and after substantial analysis determined that the outage was caused by an unauthorized party."It added that the university has initial indications that the unauthorised actor also unlawfully stole data from a limited portion of the network."We are investigating the scope of the apparent theft and will share our findings with the University community as well as anyone whose personal information was compromised," the university added in the statement. &nbsp;The hacker said that they were able to break into Columbia’s classified information after they spent more than two months trying to gain access to the university's servers.During the hacking, bizarre images appeared on the university's systems and locked students and faculty out of the systems for a brief period of time.Moreover, on one dorm television on Columbia’s Morningside campus, an image of US President Donald Trump appeared, as per a photo obtained by the Columbia Spectator, the school’s student newspaper.The Ivy League is probing the extent of the cyberattack and has restored most systems. Meanwhile, a process official said, “It will take time.”“We know that this news may raise questions and concerns across our community about the scope of the affected personal information. Our team is working toward answers,” University leaders told students and faculty in an email obtained by The Post.The officials said it identified the hacker’s tactics and signature, noting that they haven't detected any malicious activity.This comes amid Columbia University facing a battle with the Trump administration about the $400 million in grants and contracts over the institution’s failure to stamp out antisemitism on campus.

The alleged hacker, who declined to reveal their identity to The Post, said they targeted the Manhattan university to find documents indicating the use of affirmative action in admissions, which was banned by the Supreme Court last year.

More than two million people linked to Columbia University were attacked by a seasoned "hacktivist", who reportedly stole sensitive data from the students, applicants, and employees of the Ivy League University. The officials believe this cyberattack to be politically motivated. This happened on June 24, when a digital activist knocked the Ivy League's systems offline for several hours, swiped social security numbers, citizenship status, university-issued ID numbers, application decisions, employee salaries, and other private records, according to a Bloomberg News report. The extracted documents allegedly included 2.5 million applications, which were decades old, along with financial aid packages, the outlet reported. Later, a university official told The New York Post that the sophisticated hacker appeared to target specific documents to advance their political agenda. The alleged hacker, who declined to reveal their identity to The Post, said they targeted the Manhattan university to find documents indicating the use of affirmative action in admissions, which was banned by the Supreme Court last year. Columbia University issued a statement, saying, "We immediately began an investigation with the assistance of leading cybersecurity experts and after substantial analysis determined that the outage was caused by an unauthorized party." It added that the university has initial indications that the unauthorised actor also unlawfully stole data from a limited portion of the network. "We are investigating the scope of the apparent theft and will share our findings with the University community as well as anyone whose personal information was compromised," the university added in the statement. The hacker said that they were able to break into Columbia’s classified information after they spent more than two months trying to gain access to the university's servers. During the hacking, bizarre images appeared on the university's systems and locked students and faculty out of the systems for a brief period of time. Moreover, on one dorm television on Columbia’s Morningside campus, an image of US President Donald Trump appeared, as per a photo obtained by the Columbia Spectator, the school’s student newspaper. The Ivy League is probing the extent of the cyberattack and has restored most systems. Meanwhile, a process official said, “It will take time.” “We know that this news may raise questions and concerns across our community about the scope of the affected personal information. Our team is working toward answers,” University leaders told students and faculty in an email obtained by The Post. The officials said it identified the hacker’s tactics and signature, noting that they haven't detected any malicious activity. This comes amid Columbia University facing a battle with the Trump administration about the $400 million in grants and contracts over the institution’s failure to stamp out antisemitism on campus.

The alleged hacker, who declined to reveal their identity to The Post, said they targeted the Manhattan university to find documents indicating the use of affirmative action in admissions, which was banned by the Supreme Court last year.

Politically motivated cyberattack? 'Hacktivist' stole data of 2.5 mn Columbia University students, employees

Foxconn Technology Group, the largest manufacturer of Apple’s iPhone, has recalled hundreds of Chinese engineers and technicians from its production facilities in India. The move is expected to hamper the tech giant’s plans to ramp up its production in India. The withdrawal of Chinese staff, who are critical to production line setup and technical oversight, comes amid the rising tensions between the nations. The move will affect Apple’s production facilities in southern India, as only Taiwanese support personnel remain onsite.&nbsp;According to a Bloomberg report, the majority of the Chinese workers deployed at the company’s facilities in India were told to return two months ago. Since then, more than 300 workers have left the plants. It is not clear why the Chinese staff was recalled.&nbsp;Earlier this year, Bloomberg reported that “officials in Beijing verbally encouraged regulatory agencies and local governments to curb technology transfers and equipment exports to India and Southeast Asia.” The move is seen as discouraging companies from shifting manufacturing out of China.&nbsp;Foxconn’s move to recall Chinese employees could affect the production of the latest iPhone 17, of which the company plans to expand manufacturing in India. However, no major impact has been seen yet, the Bloomberg report said. However, “assembly line efficiency could suffer during the critical ramp-up period for next-generation iPhone production,” it added.&nbsp;Beijing’s strategy is said to extend beyond the recall of personnel. It also includes restricting the export of specialised equipment and technical expertise essential for the manufacturing of high-end electronics. “China’s actions come as countries like India and Vietnam aggressively court global technology companies seeking to diversify their supply chains away from Chinese dependence,” Bloomberg reported.&nbsp;Earlier, Apple CEO Tim Cook underscored the importance of Chinese technical talent in the supply chain of the iPhone. “The irreplaceable expertise of Chinese assembly workers,” he said, is not only about cost advantages but “fundamental to maintaining production standards.”&nbsp;Top intelligence sources told CNN-News18 that the move is part of China’s plan to foil India’s aim of becoming a global manufacturing hub. This may also impact India’s reputation in the world as a reliable supply chain partner.&nbsp;India accounts for about 20 per cent of the global iPhone production, which marks an impressive shift given that the large-scale manufacturing only started four years earlier in the country. Apple is aiming to produce most of its US-bound iPhones in India by the end of 2026.

The majority of the Chinese workers deployed at the company’s facilities in India were told to return two months ago. Since then, more than 300 workers have left the plants. It is not clear why the Chinese staff was recalled.

Foxconn Technology Group, the largest manufacturer of Apple’s iPhone, has recalled hundreds of Chinese engineers and technicians from its production facilities in India. The move is expected to hamper the tech giant’s plans to ramp up its production in India. The withdrawal of Chinese staff, who are critical to production line setup and technical oversight, comes amid the rising tensions between the nations. The move will affect Apple’s production facilities in southern India, as only Taiwanese support personnel remain onsite. According to a Bloomberg report, the majority of the Chinese workers deployed at the company’s facilities in India were told to return two months ago. Since then, more than 300 workers have left the plants. It is not clear why the Chinese staff was recalled. Earlier this year, Bloomberg reported that “officials in Beijing verbally encouraged regulatory agencies and local governments to curb technology transfers and equipment exports to India and Southeast Asia.” The move is seen as discouraging companies from shifting manufacturing out of China. Foxconn’s move to recall Chinese employees could affect the production of the latest iPhone 17, of which the company plans to expand manufacturing in India. However, no major impact has been seen yet, the Bloomberg report said. However, “assembly line efficiency could suffer during the critical ramp-up period for next-generation iPhone production,” it added. Beijing’s strategy is said to extend beyond the recall of personnel. It also includes restricting the export of specialised equipment and technical expertise essential for the manufacturing of high-end electronics. “China’s actions come as countries like India and Vietnam aggressively court global technology companies seeking to diversify their supply chains away from Chinese dependence,” Bloomberg reported. Earlier, Apple CEO Tim Cook underscored the importance of Chinese technical talent in the supply chain of the iPhone. “The irreplaceable expertise of Chinese assembly workers,” he said, is not only about cost advantages but “fundamental to maintaining production standards.” Top intelligence sources told CNN-News18 that the move is part of China’s plan to foil India’s aim of becoming a global manufacturing hub. This may also impact India’s reputation in the world as a reliable supply chain partner. India accounts for about 20 per cent of the global iPhone production, which marks an impressive shift given that the large-scale manufacturing only started four years earlier in the country. Apple is aiming to produce most of its US-bound iPhones in India by the end of 2026.

The majority of the Chinese workers deployed at the company’s facilities in India were told to return two months ago. Since then, more than 300 workers have left the plants. It is not clear why the Chinese staff was recalled.

Foxconn recalls Chinese staff from Indian facilities. Will it affect iPhone 17 production in India?

The American aid agency USAID has shut down and merged its remaining operations under the State Department, 60 years after its founding. USAID's end on July 1 came after President Donald Trump raised questions about several of its activities and funding allotments, including one which he alleged was for 'voter turnout' in India. While it was later clarified that the funds were meant for Bangladesh, USAID's history in India was not without controversy. Created around the time of the Cold War, USAID was accused of helping oust elected Communist governments in India, working with the US intelligence agency CIA, and was even linked to funding groups associated with the Mumbai attack perpetrator, the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba terror group. Here is a recap of the most controversial events associated with USAID in India.<h2>USAID's development aid marred by controversies - The Kerala story</h2>One of the earliest allegations against USAID in India was the political interference in Kerala in the 1957–59 period. The allegation was that the US used CIA and USAID to help destabilise the Communist government in Kerala. This was the first-ever elected Communist government in the world, led by chief minister EMS Namboodiripad. The political movement by the opposition and some community organisations to oust the Communist government was called ‘Vimochana Samaram’ in the local Malayalam language, meaning Liberation Struggle. In his 1978 memoir A Dangerous Place, the former US ambassador Daniel Patrick Moynihan admitted that the US had provided funds to the Indian National Congress to counter the Communist Party in Kerala and West Bengal. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/usaid-use-misuse-abuse-map-of-the-money-trail-8737815/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/usaid-use-misuse-abuse-map-of-the-money-trail-8737815/embed</a> &nbsp;While the Kerala events predated USAID’s formal establishment in 1961, it involved the United States Information Service, which is often linked to USAID in later narratives due to its role as a US aid agency.The Vimochana Samaram protests eventually led to President's rule in Kerala, followed by elections in 1960, which were won by the Indian National Congress. Moynihan claimed in his book that the funds were paid directly to Congress leaders, though Indira Gandhi, the Congress leader and former Indian PM, denied receiving such funds.<h2>USAID: What was the ‘election fund’ controversy?</h2>In February this year, Trump alleged that some $21 million in grants were allocated for 'voter turnout' in India. It caused a political uproar in India, with USAID in focus. India’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and opposition Congress engaged in a political row. BJP accused foreign-funded NGOs of undermining India’s sovereignty . The Congress alleged that the BJP benefited from such funds in the past. In its initial reactions, India’s foreign ministry called the allegations 'deeply troubling' and initiated investigations. But Trump's claims were later found to be based on a misunderstanding, as he had misnamed the country for which the voter turnout funds were allocated. It was in fact, for Bangladesh, though it still amounts to interference in the affairs of another sovereign nation.<h2>When USAID faced ‘anti-national’ NGO funding allegations</h2>Over the years, BJP and several nationalist groups and their media outlets have been critics of USAID, accusing it of funding NGOs with political motives. This included the so-called Joshua Project that allegedly collected sensitive data, and the Organised Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP), which targeted a top Indian businessman and alleged his links to the Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, without proof. A group with links to USAID, Freedom House, was also under the lens of the BJP and nationalists, after it downgraded India’s democratic credentials. Such incidents fueled suspicion and allegations that USAID had an anti-national, political agenda in India.<h2>The alleged Mumbai attacks terrorist group connection</h2>Reports in a section of the Indian media had alleged that the USAID inadvertently funded a group associated with Lashkar-e-Taiba, the terror group behind the Mumbai attack of 2008. The group, Helping Hands for Relief and Development (HHRD), was ostensibly a Michigan-based charity organisation. According to allegations made at the time, USAID funded HHRD, which eventually went to Pakistan-based Falah-e-Insaniat Foundation (FIF), a front for LeT. &nbsp;<h2>The espionage case of Rabinder Singh</h2>The USAID was also linked to an espionage case in the early 2000s, though proof remains scant. Rabinder Singh, an Indian intelligence officer who defected to the US, allegedly passed classified documents to the CIA via a relative employed by USAID. This led to suspicions that USAID personnel could serve as conduits for intelligence activities. There is, however, no evidence of such systematic collaboration involving USAID.<h2>USAID history in India</h2>Active in India since the 1950s, USAID initially provided emergency food aid under the India Emergency Food Assistance Act of 1951. USAID was formally set office in India in 1961. In subsequent decades, it supported infrastructure, agriculture, health programmes, and economic reforms. For instance, more than $650 million was provided between 2010 and 2011 for health, education, and disaster relief. As per the USAID, these efforts helped advance India’s development, such as establishing the Indian Institute of Technology and supporting immunisation programmes.&nbsp;Since he came to power, the Modi government tightened regulations on foreign-funded NGOs, several of them with links to USAID. Despite this, official records show appreciation for its development focus. Officially, India has acknowledged USAID's contributions in health, sanitation and renewable energy, with a 2023–24 finance ministry report detailing its seven projects worth $750 million.

USAID shut down on July 1 after President Donald Trump raised questions about several of its activities and funding allotments, including one which he alleged was for 'voter turnout' in India.

The American aid agency USAID has shut down and merged its remaining operations under the State Department, 60 years after its founding. USAID's end on July 1 came after President Donald Trump raised questions about several of its activities and funding allotments, including one which he alleged was for 'voter turnout' in India. While it was later clarified that the funds were meant for Bangladesh, USAID's history in India was not without controversy. Created around the time of the Cold War, USAID was accused of helping oust elected Communist governments in India, working with the US intelligence agency CIA, and was even linked to funding groups associated with the Mumbai attack perpetrator, the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba terror group. Here is a recap of the most controversial events associated with USAID in India. USAID's development aid marred by controversies - The Kerala story One of the earliest allegations against USAID in India was the political interference in Kerala in the 1957–59 period. The allegation was that the US used CIA and USAID to help destabilise the Communist government in Kerala. This was the first-ever elected Communist government in the world, led by chief minister EMS Namboodiripad. The political movement by the opposition and some community organisations to oust the Communist government was called ‘Vimochana Samaram’ in the local Malayalam language, meaning Liberation Struggle. In his 1978 memoir A Dangerous Place, the former US ambassador Daniel Patrick Moynihan admitted that the US had provided funds to the Indian National Congress to counter the Communist Party in Kerala and West Bengal. https://www.wionews.com/videos/usaid-use-misuse-abuse-map-of-the-money-trail-8737815/embed While the Kerala events predated USAID’s formal establishment in 1961, it involved the United States Information Service, which is often linked to USAID in later narratives due to its role as a US aid agency. The Vimochana Samaram protests eventually led to President's rule in Kerala, followed by elections in 1960, which were won by the Indian National Congress. Moynihan claimed in his book that the funds were paid directly to Congress leaders, though Indira Gandhi, the Congress leader and former Indian PM, denied receiving such funds. USAID: What was the ‘election fund’ controversy? In February this year, Trump alleged that some $21 million in grants were allocated for 'voter turnout' in India. It caused a political uproar in India, with USAID in focus. India’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and opposition Congress engaged in a political row. BJP accused foreign-funded NGOs of undermining India’s sovereignty . The Congress alleged that the BJP benefited from such funds in the past. In its initial reactions, India’s foreign ministry called the allegations 'deeply troubling' and initiated investigations. But Trump's claims were later found to be based on a misunderstanding, as he had misnamed the country for which the voter turnout funds were allocated. It was in fact, for Bangladesh, though it still amounts to interference in the affairs of another sovereign nation. When USAID faced ‘anti-national’ NGO funding allegations Over the years, BJP and several nationalist groups and their media outlets have been critics of USAID, accusing it of funding NGOs with political motives. This included the so-called Joshua Project that allegedly collected sensitive data, and the Organised Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP), which targeted a top Indian businessman and alleged his links to the Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, without proof. A group with links to USAID, Freedom House, was also under the lens of the BJP and nationalists, after it downgraded India’s democratic credentials. Such incidents fueled suspicion and allegations that USAID had an anti-national, political agenda in India. The alleged Mumbai attacks terrorist group connection Reports in a section of the Indian media had alleged that the USAID inadvertently funded a group associated with Lashkar-e-Taiba, the terror group behind the Mumbai attack of 2008. The group, Helping Hands for Relief and Development (HHRD), was ostensibly a Michigan-based charity organisation. According to allegations made at the time, USAID funded HHRD, which eventually went to Pakistan-based Falah-e-Insaniat Foundation (FIF), a front for LeT. The espionage case of Rabinder Singh The USAID was also linked to an espionage case in the early 2000s, though proof remains scant. Rabinder Singh, an Indian intelligence officer who defected to the US, allegedly passed classified documents to the CIA via a relative employed by USAID. This led to suspicions that USAID personnel could serve as conduits for intelligence activities. There is, however, no evidence of such systematic collaboration involving USAID. USAID history in India Active in India since the 1950s, USAID initially provided emergency food aid under the India Emergency Food Assistance Act of 1951. USAID was formally set office in India in 1961. In subsequent decades, it supported infrastructure, agriculture, health programmes, and economic reforms. For instance, more than $650 million was provided between 2010 and 2011 for health, education, and disaster relief. As per the USAID, these efforts helped advance India’s development, such as establishing the Indian Institute of Technology and supporting immunisation programmes. Since he came to power, the Modi government tightened regulations on foreign-funded NGOs, several of them with links to USAID. Despite this, official records show appreciation for its development focus. Officially, India has acknowledged USAID's contributions in health, sanitation and renewable energy, with a 2023–24 finance ministry report detailing its seven projects worth $750 million.

USAID's end on July 1 came after President Donald Trump raised questions about several of its activities and funding allotments, including one which he alleged was for 'voter turnout' in India.

'Terror links', helping oust Communist govt, 'election funds': USAID, shut after 60 years, had a controversial history in India

Amid fresh talks for a Tariff on India, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday said that India remains unconcerned about the possibility of the US imposing a 500 per cent tariff and will deal with the issue only when it arrives.&nbsp;Republican Senator Lindsey Graham and 80 co-sponsors, are planning to table a bill to punish nations that continue trading with Russia such as China and India by slamming 500 percent tariff on them, to weaken Russia's war economy. This in the hope that Moscow will move to peace talks or cease further aggression in Ukraine.During a press conference in Washington, Jaishankar said, “Any development … is of interest to us if it impacts our interest or could impact our interest. So, we have been in touch … Our concerns on energy, security have been made conversant to him. So, we’ll then have to cross that bridge when we come to it, if we come to it.”Graham has said that the proposed legislation will impose “bone-breaking sanctions” on Russia and its trading partners.&nbsp;This development comes amid the ongoing India-US trade negotiations that are set for July 9, when the current pause on reciprocal tariffs is set to expire. Following which 26 per cent tariff is likely to kick in. India’s chief negotiator Rajesh Agarwal and his team are extending their stay in Washington for discussions, as talks are stuck in both directions.&nbsp;"I think we are going to have a deal with India … and if they do that, we are going to have a deal for much less tariffs," said Trump.Since 2022, Russia has become one of the biggest trade partners for India, with New Delhi importing more than 36 per cent of of its crude oil needs from Moscow, and saving approximately $13 billion in the process between 2022 and 2024. &nbsp;

India’s Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar responded coolly to U.S. threats of a 500% tariff over Russian oil imports, saying “we’ll cross that bridge when we come to it,” as Washington considers new trade penalties for countries dealing with Moscow.

Amid fresh talks for a Tariff on India, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday said that India remains unconcerned about the possibility of the US imposing a 500 per cent tariff and will deal with the issue only when it arrives. Republican Senator Lindsey Graham and 80 co-sponsors, are planning to table a bill to punish nations that continue trading with Russia such as China and India by slamming 500 percent tariff on them, to weaken Russia's war economy. This in the hope that Moscow will move to peace talks or cease further aggression in Ukraine. During a press conference in Washington, Jaishankar said, “Any development … is of interest to us if it impacts our interest or could impact our interest. So, we have been in touch … Our concerns on energy, security have been made conversant to him. So, we’ll then have to cross that bridge when we come to it, if we come to it.” Graham has said that the proposed legislation will impose “bone-breaking sanctions” on Russia and its trading partners. This development comes amid the ongoing India-US trade negotiations that are set for July 9, when the current pause on reciprocal tariffs is set to expire. Following which 26 per cent tariff is likely to kick in. India’s chief negotiator Rajesh Agarwal and his team are extending their stay in Washington for discussions, as talks are stuck in both directions. "I think we are going to have a deal with India … and if they do that, we are going to have a deal for much less tariffs," said Trump. Since 2022, Russia has become one of the biggest trade partners for India, with New Delhi importing more than 36 per cent of of its crude oil needs from Moscow, and saving approximately $13 billion in the process between 2022 and 2024.

India’s Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar responded coolly to U.S. threats of a 500% tariff over Russian oil imports, saying “we’ll cross that bridge when we come to it,” as Washington considers new trade penalties for countries dealing with Moscow.

'We’ll cross that bridge':Jaishankar on potential US 500% tariff over Russia ties

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday (July 3) gave a cautious response to a query regarding the United States' proposed law that seeks to impose crippling tariffs on Russia's trade partners, including India, saying New Delhi will "cross that bridge when we come to it". He, however, said that India's concerns as to its security and energy were communicated to American lawmaker Lindsey Graham, who promulgated the bill.&nbsp;The proposed bill seeks to impose 500 per cent tariffs on countries trading with Russia despite US sanctions on Moscow over the latter's invasion of Ukraine in 2022. India and China are among the top importers of Russian energy products.&nbsp;Since Russia's invasion, Jaishankar has been defending India's decision to buy oil at discounted rates from Moscow, saying the government is doing what's best for its people. He has also called out the reliance of European energy security on Russian gas.&nbsp;Jaishankar yesterday said the proposed law was of interest to India."Regarding Senator Lindsey Graham's bill, any development which is happening in the US Congress is of interest to us if it impacts our interest or could impact our interest," he said at a press conference in Washington.&nbsp;"Our concerns and our interests on energy, security have been made conversant to him (Lindsey Graham). So we'll then have to cross that bridge when we come to it. If we come to it," he added.&nbsp;Graham, a proponent of tougher economic sanctions on Russia, says the legislation aims to pressure nations like India and China into stopping buying oil from Russia. The oil trade, according to the lawmaker, provides Moscow with economic muscles to continue the protracted war in Ukraine.&nbsp;He hopes that the bill, if passed, will weaken Russia's war economy and force Russian President Vladimir Putin to sign a favourable ceasefire deal with Ukraine.&nbsp;"Big breakthrough here. So what does this bill do? If you're buying products from Russia and you're not helping Ukraine, then there's a 500 per cent tariff on your products coming into the United States. India and China buy 70 per cent of Putin's oil. They keep his war machine going. My bill has 84 co-sponsors. It would allow the president to put tariffs on China and India and other countries to get them -- stop them from supporting Putin's war machine, to get him to the table," the US senator told ABC.&nbsp;Prior to the war, India, one of the largest oil-importing nations, used to meet most of its energy needs from the Middle East. However, the economic sanctions imposed by the US on Russia since the war paved the way for an alternate avenue for New Delhi as it started importing huge quantities of oil from Moscow at discounted prices. The enhanced trading helped Russia economically, which had been reeling under pressure exerted by several European nations by declining to purchase its oil.

The proposed bill seeks to impose 500 per cent tariffs on countries trading with Russia despite US sanctions on Moscow over the latter's invasion of Ukraine in 2022. India and China are among the top importers of Russian energy products.

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday (July 3) gave a cautious response to a query regarding the United States' proposed law that seeks to impose crippling tariffs on Russia's trade partners, including India, saying New Delhi will "cross that bridge when we come to it". He, however, said that India's concerns as to its security and energy were communicated to American lawmaker Lindsey Graham, who promulgated the bill. The proposed bill seeks to impose 500 per cent tariffs on countries trading with Russia despite US sanctions on Moscow over the latter's invasion of Ukraine in 2022. India and China are among the top importers of Russian energy products. Since Russia's invasion, Jaishankar has been defending India's decision to buy oil at discounted rates from Moscow, saying the government is doing what's best for its people. He has also called out the reliance of European energy security on Russian gas. Jaishankar yesterday said the proposed law was of interest to India. "Regarding Senator Lindsey Graham's bill, any development which is happening in the US Congress is of interest to us if it impacts our interest or could impact our interest," he said at a press conference in Washington. "Our concerns and our interests on energy, security have been made conversant to him (Lindsey Graham). So we'll then have to cross that bridge when we come to it. If we come to it," he added. Graham, a proponent of tougher economic sanctions on Russia, says the legislation aims to pressure nations like India and China into stopping buying oil from Russia. The oil trade, according to the lawmaker, provides Moscow with economic muscles to continue the protracted war in Ukraine. He hopes that the bill, if passed, will weaken Russia's war economy and force Russian President Vladimir Putin to sign a favourable ceasefire deal with Ukraine. "Big breakthrough here. So what does this bill do? If you're buying products from Russia and you're not helping Ukraine, then there's a 500 per cent tariff on your products coming into the United States. India and China buy 70 per cent of Putin's oil. They keep his war machine going. My bill has 84 co-sponsors. It would allow the president to put tariffs on China and India and other countries to get them -- stop them from supporting Putin's war machine, to get him to the table," the US senator told ABC. Prior to the war, India, one of the largest oil-importing nations, used to meet most of its energy needs from the Middle East. However, the economic sanctions imposed by the US on Russia since the war paved the way for an alternate avenue for New Delhi as it started importing huge quantities of oil from Moscow at discounted prices. The enhanced trading helped Russia economically, which had been reeling under pressure exerted by several European nations by declining to purchase its oil.

The proposed bill seeks to impose 500 per cent tariffs on countries trading with Russia despite US sanctions on Moscow over the latter's invasion of Ukraine in 2022. India and China are among the top importers of Russian energy products.

India's Jaishankar's cautious response to US lawmaker's proposed '500% tariff' bill - Here's what he said

In a significant move, Russia has offered to make its fifth-generation stealth fighter jet, the Su-57, to the Indian Air Force. This innovative proposal was announced on June 4, 2025, to mark the most comprehensive technology transfer deal has ever been offered to India in the defence sector. In addition, Russia has also reportedly offered joint production of the S-500 to India after the successful deployment and performance of the S-400 system against Pakistan during 'operation sindor', but further negotiations and decisions are still pending.<h3>What is the Russia's Su-57 Jets?</h3>The aircraft features state-of-the-art radar systems, internal weapon bays to reduce external visibility, and an angular design that helps deflect radar waves. Its curved air intakes also protect the engine blades from the detection of the radar system, according to a report in Network 18.Without using afterburners, it can fly at supersonic speeds for extended periods. Built with stealth capabilities, the jet is harder for adversaries to detect and comes equipped with a versatile weapons package designed for dominance in the air and precision strikes on targets.These design elements collectively minimise both radar and infrared signatures, making the aircraft difficult to detect or track. It is regarded as a technologically advanced and combat-ready system that could be smoothly adapted into the Indian Air Force’s operations.<h3>What is Russia's S-500 Air Defense System?</h3>The S-500, quite popular as Prometheus, marked as significant air defence technology. It is designed to counter upcoming threats such as hypersonic glide vehicles, high-speed drones, and low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites, which are beyond the capability of the S-400 defence system.The detection range of this system is up to 2,000 km for ballistic targets, 800 km for airborne targets. And, interception range of the Defence System is 600 km for ballistic and 400 km for airborne targets. In addition, it can hit 10 target at a time with response 3-4 seconds faster than S-400.<h3>Why India says no to Russia?</h3>According to Indian air force officials, the Su-57 of Russia was too expensive, poorly engineered with old and unreliable engines. Previously, at the time of deal, Sukhoi was developing two Su-57 versions, one for Russia and another was designed for India. The Russian variant was reportedly more basic, while the Indian version was expected to include Indian-made avionics and support a broader range of weapons. However, the Indian version of this system had not advanced beyond design drafts, and also progress on the variant's development was slow and disappointing.Based on transcripts from meetings held in December 2013 and January 2014, obtained by Business Standard, Indian Air Force and defence ministry officials identified at least four major “shortfalls … in terms of performance and other technical features”.Additionally, India's Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) project is accelerating as officials appear more to focused inward, giving high-priority to homegrown. That means the Su-57 deal, even with technology transfer, is no longer appealing and effective for India.Meanwhile, India says no to Russian S‑500 air defence system as it has already signed a $5.4 billion deal with Russia in 2018 for five units of the S‑400 system. The deal is still being fulfilled as 3 of the 5 ordered system has arrived yet, with delays due to the Ukraine war and sanctions on Russia. Therefore, it is not looking to commit to another costly Russian system until that’s completed.In addition, India is extending its defence deal from being more Russian centric to western and indigenisation under Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliance).&nbsp;

India's Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) project is accelerating as officials appear more to focused inward, giving high-priority to homegrown. It is going for more towards western and indigenisation under Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliance) from being more Russian centric.

In a significant move, Russia has offered to make its fifth-generation stealth fighter jet, the Su-57, to the Indian Air Force. This innovative proposal was announced on June 4, 2025, to mark the most comprehensive technology transfer deal has ever been offered to India in the defence sector. In addition, Russia has also reportedly offered joint production of the S-500 to India after the successful deployment and performance of the S-400 system against Pakistan during 'operation sindor', but further negotiations and decisions are still pending. What is the Russia's Su-57 Jets? The aircraft features state-of-the-art radar systems, internal weapon bays to reduce external visibility, and an angular design that helps deflect radar waves. Its curved air intakes also protect the engine blades from the detection of the radar system, according to a report in Network 18. Without using afterburners, it can fly at supersonic speeds for extended periods. Built with stealth capabilities, the jet is harder for adversaries to detect and comes equipped with a versatile weapons package designed for dominance in the air and precision strikes on targets. These design elements collectively minimise both radar and infrared signatures, making the aircraft difficult to detect or track. It is regarded as a technologically advanced and combat-ready system that could be smoothly adapted into the Indian Air Force’s operations. What is Russia's S-500 Air Defense System? The S-500, quite popular as Prometheus, marked as significant air defence technology. It is designed to counter upcoming threats such as hypersonic glide vehicles, high-speed drones, and low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites, which are beyond the capability of the S-400 defence system. The detection range of this system is up to 2,000 km for ballistic targets, 800 km for airborne targets. And, interception range of the Defence System is 600 km for ballistic and 400 km for airborne targets. In addition, it can hit 10 target at a time with response 3-4 seconds faster than S-400. Why India says no to Russia? According to Indian air force officials, the Su-57 of Russia was too expensive, poorly engineered with old and unreliable engines. Previously, at the time of deal, Sukhoi was developing two Su-57 versions, one for Russia and another was designed for India. The Russian variant was reportedly more basic, while the Indian version was expected to include Indian-made avionics and support a broader range of weapons. However, the Indian version of this system had not advanced beyond design drafts, and also progress on the variant's development was slow and disappointing. Based on transcripts from meetings held in December 2013 and January 2014, obtained by Business Standard, Indian Air Force and defence ministry officials identified at least four major “shortfalls … in terms of performance and other technical features”. Additionally, India's Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) project is accelerating as officials appear more to focused inward, giving high-priority to homegrown. That means the Su-57 deal, even with technology transfer, is no longer appealing and effective for India. Meanwhile, India says no to Russian S‑500 air defence system as it has already signed a $5.4 billion deal with Russia in 2018 for five units of the S‑400 system. The deal is still being fulfilled as 3 of the 5 ordered system has arrived yet, with delays due to the Ukraine war and sanctions on Russia. Therefore, it is not looking to commit to another costly Russian system until that’s completed. In addition, India is extending its defence deal from being more Russian centric to western and indigenisation under Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliance).

India's Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) project is accelerating as officials appear more to focused inward, giving high-priority to homegrown. It is going for more towards western and indigenisation under Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliance) from being more Russian centric.

What are Su-57 Jets and the S-500 Air Defence System—Why did India say no to Russia?

Four people were killed and 14 others were injured in a mass shooting in Chicago on Wednesday (Jul 2) night, said police. The horrific incident took place outside a nightclub in the River North neighbourhood, on the 300 block of West Chicago Avenue. Reportedly, around 11 pm, a vehicle drove past the Artis Lounge, and three people opened fire on a crowd standing outside. The suspects fled the scene in the vehicle. The police said that no one has been taken into custody yet, and police continue to search for the shooters as the investigation is ongoing.&nbsp;Chicago police confirmed that four people were killed in the incident. Among those were two men, ages 24 and 25, &nbsp;and two women. Fourteen others were wounded in the shooting, at least four of whom remain in critical condition at local hospitals. The victims were mainly in their 20s and 30s.&nbsp;According to a CBS News report, the crowd was leaving the nightclub following an album release party for rapper Mello Buckzz. In a statement on social media, Buckzz said, “Prayers up for all my sisters god please wrap yo arms around every last one of them.” She added, “Feel like everything just weighing down on me...all I can do is talk to god and pray.”&nbsp;In November 2022, another mass shooting incident took place on the same block. At that time, the same nightclub was called Hush Lounge. One person was killed in the incident, and three others were injured after a group that had been thrown out of the nightclub began fighting. The Hush Lounge was shut down after the incident, and Artis Lounge was later opened in the same place.&nbsp;According to Chicago's crime data, the murders in the city are down 32 per cent, and shooting incidents have dropped 39 per cent as of June 29.&nbsp;

Four people were killed and 14 others were injured in a mass shooting incident in Chicago on Wednesday (Jul 2) night, said police.

Four people were killed and 14 others were injured in a mass shooting in Chicago on Wednesday (Jul 2) night, said police. The horrific incident took place outside a nightclub in the River North neighbourhood, on the 300 block of West Chicago Avenue. Reportedly, around 11 pm, a vehicle drove past the Artis Lounge, and three people opened fire on a crowd standing outside. The suspects fled the scene in the vehicle. The police said that no one has been taken into custody yet, and police continue to search for the shooters as the investigation is ongoing. Chicago police confirmed that four people were killed in the incident. Among those were two men, ages 24 and 25, and two women. Fourteen others were wounded in the shooting, at least four of whom remain in critical condition at local hospitals. The victims were mainly in their 20s and 30s. According to a CBS News report, the crowd was leaving the nightclub following an album release party for rapper Mello Buckzz. In a statement on social media, Buckzz said, “Prayers up for all my sisters god please wrap yo arms around every last one of them.” She added, “Feel like everything just weighing down on me...all I can do is talk to god and pray.” In November 2022, another mass shooting incident took place on the same block. At that time, the same nightclub was called Hush Lounge. One person was killed in the incident, and three others were injured after a group that had been thrown out of the nightclub began fighting. The Hush Lounge was shut down after the incident, and Artis Lounge was later opened in the same place. According to Chicago's crime data, the murders in the city are down 32 per cent, and shooting incidents have dropped 39 per cent as of June 29.

Four people were killed and 14 others were injured in a mass shooting incident in Chicago on Wednesday (Jul 2) night, said police.

Chicago mass shooting: 4 killed, 14 injured after gunman opens fire on crowd | What we know

As US President Donald Trump's tax and spending bill awaits final vote in the House on Thursday (July 3), it can have a significant impact on Indians. Trump's 'Big and Beautiful Bill' could define his second term in the White House and is expected to cause $3 trillion debt for the US.On Wednesday, Trump defended his bill after it barely passed in the Senate. In a social media post, the US president stated that the tax and spending bill will bring “growth” to the US, despite an estimated $3.3 trillion increase in the national debt through 2034.On Tuesday, the senators voted 51-50 to pass the bill after Vice President JD Vance cast the tie-breaking vote, as three Republicans voted against the bill.<h2>How the bill impacts India</h2>In the 940-page proposal, a significant revision has been made on the dilution of the provision on tax remittances to other countries, including India. There will be a massive relief for thousands of non-resident Indians (NRIs) and Indian professionals working in the US, who send money to their families back home.The Indian diaspora in the US is notably the second-largest migrant community in America.According to the updated draft of the bill released on June 27, the tax rate on remittances was reduced to one per cent, which is down from the five percent proposed originally.Earlier in the House version, the tax rate was brought down to 3.5 per cent, but now, it has been slashed to 1 per cent."There is hereby imposed on any remittance transfer a tax equal to 1 per cent of the amount of such transfer...The tax imposed by this section with respect to any remittance transfer shall be paid by the sender with respect to such transfer," the updated draft of the bill states.This rule will be applicable to all US residents who aren't US citizens, and also includes Green Card holders, people on temporary visas such as H-1B or H-2A and foreign students.It is expected to benefit nearly 45 lakh Indians living in the US, including nearly 32 lakh people of Indian origin.Earlier today, Trump urged Republicans to vote for it, asking, "What are the Republicans waiting for??? What are you trying to prove?""Largest Tax Cuts in History and a Booming Economy vs. Biggest Tax Increase in History, and a Failed Economy. MAGA IS NOT HAPPY, AND IT’S COSTING YOU VOTES!!!," he stated in a post on Truth Social."FOR REPUBLICANS, THIS SHOULD BE AN EASY YES VOTE. RIDICULOUS!!!," Trump added.&nbsp;

According to the updated draft of the bill released on June 27, the tax rate on remittances was reduced to one per cent, which is down from the five percent proposed originally.

As US President Donald Trump's tax and spending bill awaits final vote in the House on Thursday (July 3), it can have a significant impact on Indians. Trump's 'Big and Beautiful Bill' could define his second term in the White House and is expected to cause $3 trillion debt for the US. On Wednesday, Trump defended his bill after it barely passed in the Senate. In a social media post, the US president stated that the tax and spending bill will bring “growth” to the US, despite an estimated $3.3 trillion increase in the national debt through 2034. On Tuesday, the senators voted 51-50 to pass the bill after Vice President JD Vance cast the tie-breaking vote, as three Republicans voted against the bill. How the bill impacts India In the 940-page proposal, a significant revision has been made on the dilution of the provision on tax remittances to other countries, including India. There will be a massive relief for thousands of non-resident Indians (NRIs) and Indian professionals working in the US, who send money to their families back home. The Indian diaspora in the US is notably the second-largest migrant community in America. According to the updated draft of the bill released on June 27, the tax rate on remittances was reduced to one per cent, which is down from the five percent proposed originally. Earlier in the House version, the tax rate was brought down to 3.5 per cent, but now, it has been slashed to 1 per cent. "There is hereby imposed on any remittance transfer a tax equal to 1 per cent of the amount of such transfer...The tax imposed by this section with respect to any remittance transfer shall be paid by the sender with respect to such transfer," the updated draft of the bill states. This rule will be applicable to all US residents who aren't US citizens, and also includes Green Card holders, people on temporary visas such as H-1B or H-2A and foreign students. It is expected to benefit nearly 45 lakh Indians living in the US, including nearly 32 lakh people of Indian origin. Earlier today, Trump urged Republicans to vote for it, asking, "What are the Republicans waiting for??? What are you trying to prove?" "Largest Tax Cuts in History and a Booming Economy vs. Biggest Tax Increase in History, and a Failed Economy. MAGA IS NOT HAPPY, AND IT’S COSTING YOU VOTES!!!," he stated in a post on Truth Social. "FOR REPUBLICANS, THIS SHOULD BE AN EASY YES VOTE. RIDICULOUS!!!," Trump added.

According to the updated draft of the bill released on June 27, the tax rate on remittances was reduced to one per cent, which is down from the five percent proposed originally.

Trump's 'Big, Beautiful Bill': Know how will it impact Indians as bill awaits final vote

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