The U.S. Department of Defense has announced a $400 million conditional loan to Australian firm Sunrise Energy Metals to develop the world’s first primary mine for scandium, a rare earth element dominated by China. The Syerston Scandium Project in New South Wales aims to reduce reliance on Chinese supplies, with Sunrise striking a deal with Lockheed Martin to provide 25% of its output for five years. Additionally, President Trump stated that the U.S. will invest $3 billion in critical minerals and battery projects to enhance domestic production and national security.
Paris is hosting its first high-diving competition in the Seine, with athletes diving from a 20-meter platform near the Eiffel Tower, as part of the European Aquatics Championships, which will see over 1,000 athletes competing in five disciplines. However, the event faced challenges when training was suspended due to detected hydrocarbons in the water, though treatment allowed it to proceed as planned. The overall effort to make the Seine swimmable again has involved €1.4 billion in investments and aims to shift the river's perception from commerce to a venue for sports and recreation, marking a significant return to public swimming after it was banned in 1923.
The Anglian Combination League, which consists of 85 amateur teams in Norfolk and Suffolk, has postponed the start of its 2026/27 season to August 29 due to dangerously "rock hard" pitches caused by a record drought and heat. This decision was made after many pre-season friendlies were canceled and injuries occurred during matches played on the dried-out fields, amidst the driest and hottest July since records began in 1836. The situation is exacerbated by ongoing heatwaves, with temperatures expected to reach 36°C next week, and a drought declaration covering half of England, prompting water companies to impose hosepipe bans.
After over five months of war against Iran, President Trump has been criticized for his cycle of repeated threats and subsequent backdowns, adopting the same tactic seven times since the war began on February 28. Despite claiming the U.S. has "virtually" won and that Iran desires a deal, ongoing conflict and failed negotiations reveal ongoing Iranian military capabilities and have led to ridicule of Trump's assertions, including a montage where he claimed peace was imminent 14 separate times since March. Analysts argue that Trump's lack of understanding of Iran's leadership and political landscape has resulted in ineffective threats, with Boroujerdi emphasizing that the regime's resistance to pressure makes it harder to the topple than anticipated.
The rise in demand for AI infrastructure has led to a boom in data centers, which are unpopular among the public, with a Gallup poll indicating that 70% of Americans oppose the construction of such facilities in their area. Candidates from both parties, including Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed and Republican gubernatorial nominee Vivek Ramaswamy, are addressing the issue by proposing moratoriums on data center construction and emphasizing community concerns such as rising electric bills and pollution. In various states, including Michigan and Ohio, local voters are increasingly prioritizing data center regulation in political campaigns, driving candidates to focus on this issue as part of their platforms.
Claudio "Chiqui" Tapia, president of the Argentine Football Association, stated that Lionel Messi is solely responsible for deciding when to retire, emphasizing the need to let him enjoy his game after a strong performance at the World Cup, where he scored eight goals and provided four assists. Despite turning 39, Messi has not indicated when he might retire from international football or his time with Inter Miami, having previously led Argentina to victory in the 2022 World Cup. The next World Cup in 2030, set to be held in Spain, Portugal, and Morocco, would see Messi turn 43, nearing the age of the record-holder for the oldest non-goalkeeper to appear in a World Cup, Roger Milla, who was 42 years and 39 days old.
Typhoon Dolphin struck Japan's southern island of Okinawa, injuring five people and leaving 14,000 buildings without power, before moving towards eastern China where authorities activated a level-three emergency response. The storm, with maximum sustained winds of 162 km/h (100 mph) and gusts up to 216 km/h (134 mph), is expected to bring over 600 mm (23.6 in) of rain to parts of Zhejiang province, prompting the suspension of 162 passenger ferry routes and various educational facilities. In Taiwan, 63 international flights were cancelled due to the typhoon, while Chinese authorities issued traffic control measures in the Taiwan Strait, which Taipei condemned.
The Senate confirmed Todd Blanche as US Attorney General, with a 51-48 vote, marking a significant victory for Donald Trump, as only Senator Bill Cassidy supported him among Republicans while all Democrats opposed the nomination. Blanche faced criticism over a controversial $1.8 billion "anti-weaponization fund" and issues related to the handling of Jeffrey Epstein files, which resulted in the departure of numerous career Justice Department attorneys. His tenure has included controversial actions such as indicting political rivals and promising to support anti-abortion efforts, further fueling concerns about the politicization of the Justice Department.
The Senate confirmed Todd Blanche as U.S. attorney general with a narrow vote of 50-49, following support from Republican Sen. Bill Cassidy after concerns about Blanche's judgment and the controversial $1.8 billion Anti-Weaponization Fund were addressed. Blanche committed to rescinding the fund, which aimed to compensate individuals claiming the government was weaponized against them, and provided written assurances to secure his nomination. Republican Senators John Cornyn and Thom Tillis emphasized the need for a permanent head of the DOJ, particularly one who can provide close legal advice to President Trump.
The US Senate has passed a bill allowing the imposition of tariffs up to 100% on goods from countries, including India and China, that purchase Russian oil and gas, with a vote of 86-11. India, a major importer of Russian oil since the onset of the Russia-Ukraine war in 2022, could face significantly higher export costs if these tariffs are enacted, compelling US importers to seek alternative suppliers. The legislation does not automatically impose tariffs but grants discretion to the President to decide on their implementation based on future law and executive actions.
Rashid Khan took six wickets for 34 runs as Afghanistan defeated Ireland by 92 runs in the second one-day international, leading the five-match series 1-0 after the first ODI was washed out. Ireland collapsed, losing seven wickets for 63 runs, and was bowled out for 207 while chasing a target of 300. Afghanistan's opener, Ibrahim Zadran, top-scored with 84 runs in their total of 299-8.
The Seeds of Peace summer camp, held in Devon for the first time after 30 years, brings together teenagers aged 14 to 17 from eight countries, including Israel, Palestine, India, and Pakistan, to engage in 32 hours of dialogue about their lived experiences and conflicts. Organizers faced challenges in selecting a host country that would feel safe for participants from opposing sides, as many are often hesitant about sending their children abroad. Campers, such as Mika from Israel and Hala from Palestine, expressed that the experience was life-changing, as they learned to understand each other's perspectives despite the challenges of confronting long-held animosities.
Sadiq Khan has urged Andy Burnham to reaffirm his commitment to net zero and reduce the UK’s reliance on oil and gas amid a summer marked by drought, wildfires, and heatwaves, which Khan describes as evidence of the urgent climate crisis. As pressure builds to approve new drilling in the North Sea, particularly the Jackdaw and Rosebank projects, Labour MPs express concern that such actions would alienate voters experiencing extreme weather and contradict the party's manifesto pledge against new licenses. Khan warns that without urgent climate action, the worst consequences of climate change are yet to come, emphasizing the need for governments worldwide to prioritize sustainability and tackle climate denial.
The Korea Football Association (KFA) has apologized following allegations that it provided "sexual services" to foreign referees during international matches in 2011 and 2012, particularly for the 2014 World Cup and 2012 Olympics. A 2016 investigation revealed that the KFA arranged inappropriate entertainment for referees on seven occasions in a year, including visits to massage parlors with sexual services included. This scandal adds to the scrutiny facing the KFA, which is already under investigation related to the controversial appointment of former national team coach Hong Myung-bo, whose return in 2024 followed a disappointing World Cup campaign.
The FTSE 100 index is currently at 10,901.09, reflecting a 0.31% increase, while the FTSE 250 stands at 24,854.86, up 0.65%. Leasehold flats in England are struggling to sell, with reports indicating that many do not find buyers within six months, even after prices have been slashed. Additionally, the DOW has reached 54,036.93 (+0.28%) and the S&P 500 is at 7,757.64 (+0.62%), showing positive trends in major US indices.
The US embassy in London is offering grants of up to $500,000 for public education programs aimed at fostering a "national conversation" around shared civilizational values, which critics claim represents meddling in British politics. This initiative, termed “Liberty Under Law: The Shared Anglo-American Tradition,” intends to promote topics such as freedom of speech and limited government, with priority given to ambitious projects that can demonstrate measurable impacts on civic engagement. The grants are distinct from a separate $12 million allocation planned for organizations associated with conservative figures like Jacob Rees-Mogg and Toby Young, raising concerns over perceived efforts to export Trump-era values to the UK.
On 12 August, the Spanish village of Somosierra will be a prime viewing location for a total solar eclipse, which has not occurred in the region for over 120 years, offering 1 minute and 29 seconds of totality. With an expected influx of 2,000 visitors and only 93 residents, logistical challenges are arising, including parking, water supply, and food preparation, prompting the village council to prepare by recruiting volunteers and hiring experts for guidance. The event is drawing significant media attention, and there is anticipation for future astronomical events, including a six-minute eclipse next year and a "ring of fire eclipse" in January 2028.
In the UK, the Report Remove service reported a significant increase in explicit deepfake images involving children, receiving 420 reports in the first half of 2023 alone, surpassing the total of 397 for all of 2025. The Internet Watch Foundation highlighted that many of these cases involve severe manipulations that qualify as child sexual abuse material. Experts stress the urgent need for tech companies to implement stronger safeguards in AI technology to prevent such harmful content creation and address the risks of sextortion faced by child victims.
Typhoon Dolphin struck Japan with maximum sustained winds of 162 km/h and gusts up to 216 km/h, leading to injuries and power outages affecting around 14,000 buildings, while 240 people sought refuge in evacuation centers. The storm is forecasted to make landfall in China between late Sunday and early Monday, prompting the suspension of 162 passenger ferry routes and the closure of Ningbo Lishe International Airport. Taiwan also faced disruptions, with 63 international flights canceled, amid increasing tensions as China imposed traffic control measures in the Taiwan Strait during the typhoon's approach.
Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke, age 29, died on May 11 due to the effects of heroin and cocaine, with the medical examiner ruling his death an accident. The report noted that multiple prescription medications also contributed, although their specifics were not disclosed. Clarke, who averaged 10.2 points and 5.5 rebounds over his 309 NBA games, faced significant injuries in his final seasons and was arrested approximately six weeks before his death on charges related to drug possession and trafficking.
On June 8, a violent stabbing in Belfast escalated into racial riots fueled by loyalist groups, marking the third consecutive summer of such disturbances in Northern Ireland. Following the incident, a far-right call to action prompted hundreds of participants in loyalist areas to gather and launch an organized attack on foreign-owned homes, culminating in a mob assault on a Romanian family's residence. The unfolding violence, characterized by vandalism and intimidation, was meticulously planned, with instructions to avoid recording the events, showing a heightened level of organization among the demonstrators.
The TUC is urging Chancellor John Healey to conduct a comprehensive review of the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR), criticizing it for underestimating the benefits of public investment and perpetuating outdated austerity models. The call for reform includes suggestions to enhance investment bodies like the National Wealth Fund (NWF), which could be allowed to pursue longer-term investments up to 15 years for greater project suitability. Additionally, the TUC claims the UK economy is experiencing the second fastest growth in the G7, but stresses the need for the government to further enable investment through existing fiscal rules.
Germany's Basic Law prohibits forced military service, and any reinstatement of conscription would require a civilian-service alternative for conscientious objectors; the Family Affairs Ministry has reached out to 23 organizations, with 22 indicating a willingness to participate in civilian service. The Bundeswehr aims to increase its troop count from 185,000 to at least 260,000 by 2030 to strengthen national defense, and while voluntary military service remains in place for now, there are ongoing efforts to boost recruitment, which included about 530 young men signing up after a questionnaire in 2026. Although mandatory civilian service is not currently expected, it remains an option for the government due to the constitutional provision allowing its reactivation if security situations change, with major welfare organizations expressing support but cautioning that it won't resolve current staffing shortages in social services.
Ana Bizdoaca and around 300 others, including approximately 100 children, have been sleeping on the pavement near Rome’s Termini station since being evacuated from their squatted home, Spin Time, after a small fire on July 29, 2026. The building, which housed 140 families from over 20 countries and operated as a vital cultural space, was declared unfit for habitation by magistrates, leaving residents unable to return and relying on volunteers for food and basic supplies. The situation has sparked support from the public, including a letter from Nobel Prize-winning physicist Giorgio Parisi, highlighting issues of inequality and marginalization affecting the community.
Bangladesh has ruled out the possibility of former cricketer Shakib Al Hasan returning to play after he participated in a media event with former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who is a convicted fugitive facing severe charges including crimes against humanity. Shakib, aged 39 and the nation's most successful cricketer with over 400 international matches played and participation in five World Cups, has announced his willingness to return to Bangladesh from exile in Sri Lanka to face trial on murder charges. His involvement in the event sparked outrage, leading to attacks on his property, and the government has shifted from a previously flexible stance on his return to a position of total rejection following his actions.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino visited Colombia to garner support amid the ongoing crisis at FIFA, meeting with top South American football officials including CONMEBOL president Alejandro Dominguez in Cali. While Infantino seeks a fourth term in the FIFA presidential election set for March and faces criticism from UEFA, he received backing from multiple South American federations, including the Argentine and Paraguayan federations, as they praised the withdrawal of a controversial plan for private investment in FIFA. Additionally, Infantino expressed his joy at participating in a children's football festival in Cali, emphasizing the unity and happiness that football brings.
Wildfire smoke annually kills 1.5 million people globally, a toll higher than floods, storms, or heat, and in 2023, smoke from Canadian wildfires caused 82,000 early deaths, with significant mortality impacts felt in the US and Europe due to wind patterns. Toronto experienced severe air quality issues, briefly having the worst pollution levels of any major city, as hospital staff reported an increase in patients with respiratory problems. Current research is struggling to keep pace with the health implications of wildfire smoke, particularly as climate change exacerbates the frequency and intensity of fire-related pollution events.
The Democratic Republic of the Congo is preparing for its first national census in 42 years, with the previous one conducted in 1984, and is expected to gather data on its estimated population of 112 million people, which has an annual growth rate of 3.2%. Millions, like Heritier Ramazani, have never been documented, reflecting a broader issue of lacking official identity papers due to years of political instability and conflict. The census will utilize digital tools for data collection across the country's 2.3 million square kilometers, although challenges include reaching displaced communities and areas with ongoing violence.
Russian strikes near Kyiv have killed three people, including a child, and wounded three others, with attacks affecting multiple locations in the Boryspil district. Ukraine's air defenses are increasingly unable to cope with approximately 100 ballistic missiles launched by Russia each month, with President Zelenskyy noting a shortfall in air-defense missiles received this year compared to 2025. Additionally, the US Senate passed a new sanctions bill targeting Russian energy exports, which includes 100 percent tariffs on countries purchasing Russian oil and gas, with an overwhelming approval of 86-11.
The US plans to provide $1 billion in security aid to Colombia to support new President Abelardo De La Espriella's promises to combat drug trafficking and armed groups. De La Espriella, who won the runoff election with a focus on significant economic austerity and a 40% reduction in the state, stated that the option for peace talks with criminal gangs has been exhausted. His administration intends to use aerial herbicides to eradicate coca crops while navigating a divided congress to implement his policies.