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Trump says U.S. to investigate EU trade practices over tech company fines

Trump says U.S. to investigate EU trade practices over tech company fines

Summary

President Trump announced an immediate investigation into the European Union’s trade practices following large fines against major U.S. tech companies. He said the EU’s actions are unfair to American companies and taxpayers and indicated tariffs against the EU could follow.

Key Facts

  • President Trump is starting an investigation under Section 301 of the Trade Act targeting the EU’s treatment of U.S. tech firms.
  • The European Union fined Google €890 million ($1 billion) for breaking antitrust rules related to its app store and search engine.
  • Other U.S. tech companies fined by the EU include Apple, Meta (Facebook and Instagram), and Amazon.
  • Section 301 allows the U.S. to impose tariffs or penalties if trade practices are found unfair or discriminatory.
  • President Trump threatened a "substantial tariff" on the EU in response to the fines.
  • The Trump administration used Section 301 before to investigate countries like Brazil, India, and Japan over trade issues.
  • Recently, tariffs ranging from 10% to 12.5% were applied to products from 60 trading partners accused of allowing forced labor.
  • Tariffs are a key part of President Trump’s economic policy, especially after the Supreme Court blocked broad tariffs based on emergency powers.
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ICC prosecutor Khan removed over sexual misconduct allegations: Sources

ICC prosecutor Khan removed over sexual misconduct allegations: Sources

Summary

Member states of the International Criminal Court (ICC) have voted to remove Karim Khan from his role as prosecutor. The decision follows sexual misconduct allegations against Khan and political tensions related to his investigations of Israeli and U.S. officials.

Key Facts

  • The ICC has 125 member states, and a majority voted to dismiss Karim Khan as prosecutor.
  • Khan faced sexual harassment claims made by a junior staff member, who described inappropriate touching.
  • Khan denies any wrongdoing and his lawyers argue the dismissal process was unfair and without enough evidence.
  • The ICC previously suspended Khan based on a UN report and advice from judicial experts.
  • Khan led investigations into alleged war crimes involving Israeli and U.S. officials, including arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant.
  • The Trump administration imposed sanctions on Khan and ICC staff in response to these investigations and opposed the ICC’s work.
  • Khan’s removal starts the process to choose a new ICC prosecutor, but it won’t affect existing arrest warrants, which only ICC judges can cancel.
  • Some diplomats and officials see Khan’s removal as part of broader political pressure against the ICC.
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Karim Khan ousted from role as prosecutor of international criminal court

Karim Khan ousted from role as prosecutor of international criminal court

Summary

Karim Khan, the chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC), has been removed from his position after being found guilty of serious misconduct related to sexual abuse allegations. The ICC’s member states voted to remove him in a special meeting at the United Nations headquarters.

Key Facts

  • Karim Khan was the chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court.
  • He was accused of sexual abuse by a woman who worked for him at the ICC.
  • The misconduct included claims of coercive and non-consensual sexual behavior.
  • Khan denied the allegations and said the disciplinary process was unfair.
  • 82 out of 125 ICC member states voted to remove him.
  • The vote took place at a meeting at the United Nations headquarters in New York.
  • Khan was elected in 2021 for a nine-year term to lead the court’s prosecution efforts.
  • This is the first time an ICC chief prosecutor has been ousted over such allegations.
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Elon Musk says he backs ‘normal people’  when asked about support for ‘far right’

Elon Musk says he backs ‘normal people’ when asked about support for ‘far right’

Summary

Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, said he supports "normal people" and denied supporting the "far right." He also criticized the media for how it covers conservatives in a recent interview with The Economist.

Key Facts

  • Elon Musk is the CEO of Tesla and SpaceX.
  • He was asked if he supports the "far right."
  • Musk replied that he supports "normal people" instead.
  • He expressed frustration with how the media reports on conservatives.
  • The interview was published by The Economist.
  • Zanny Minton Beddoes is the Editor-in-Chief of The Economist.
  • Musk pushed back against the idea that he supports extremist political views.
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11 people indicted in smuggling deaths of 7 migrants in rail cargo container in Texas

11 people indicted in smuggling deaths of 7 migrants in rail cargo container in Texas

Summary

Eleven people have been charged in connection with the deaths of seven migrants who were smuggled inside a hot, sealed rail cargo container in Texas. The migrants, including a 14-year-old boy, died of heat stroke while being transported from the border toward San Antonio.

Key Facts

  • Seven migrants died inside a rail cargo container in Texas in May, including a 14-year-old boy.
  • Six were found dead in a rail yard in Laredo, and one was left near train tracks in San Antonio.
  • The container had no ventilation or cooling and could not be opened from inside.
  • Temperatures on that day were between 88 and 92 degrees Fahrenheit (31-33 Celsius).
  • The migrants were from Honduras and Mexico and paid between $1,500 and $10,000 for the journey.
  • Eleven people were indicted for conspiracy and aiding the transport of migrants resulting in death, facing up to life in prison.
  • Arrests have been made in Texas, with some defendants being U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and others without legal status.
  • Smuggling on trains is a known risk because trains stop and slow near the border, allowing migrants and smugglers to hide or board.
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US school shooter pleads guilty in Georgia following father’s conviction

US school shooter pleads guilty in Georgia following father’s conviction

Summary

A 16-year-old boy named Colt Gray pleaded guilty to 55 charges, including murder, for a school shooting in Georgia in 2024. His father, Colin Gray, was previously convicted for giving Colt the gun used in the attack, which killed four people and injured several others.

Key Facts

  • Colt Gray pleaded guilty to 55 charges, including murder, related to a school shooting at Apalachee High School on September 4, 2024.
  • Four people died in the shooting: two students aged 14 and two teachers aged 39 and 53.
  • Colin Gray, Colt’s father, was convicted of second-degree murder and involuntary manslaughter for providing the gun.
  • Colt faces a minimum sentence of life in prison due to his guilty plea.
  • The judge confirmed Colt understood the consequences of his plea before accepting it.
  • Colt’s mother testified that she had asked Colin Gray to secure weapons to keep them away from Colt.
  • Investigators found a shrine to a previous mass shooter in Colt’s bedroom.
  • In the US, 64 school shootings have occurred in 2024, causing 24 deaths and 32 injuries, according to Everytown for Gun Safety.
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US exceeds measles cases in all of 2025 by July 2026

US exceeds measles cases in all of 2025 by July 2026

Summary

The United States has reported more measles cases in 2026 by July 23 than the total number reported in all of 2025. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed 2,318 measles cases so far this year, compared to 2,289 cases last year.

Key Facts

  • As of July 23, 2026, there are 2,318 confirmed measles cases in the U.S.
  • The total number of cases in 2026 has already exceeded the entire total from 2025 (2,289 cases).
  • Measles cases are spread across most parts of the country.
  • The CDC monitors and reports measles cases in the United States.
  • Measles is a contagious disease that can spread easily without vaccination.
  • The rising number of cases highlights ongoing public health concerns about measles outbreaks.
  • Timely vaccination is key to preventing the spread of measles.
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Trump's hunt for leverage over Saudi Arabia fuels nuclear proliferation concerns

Trump's hunt for leverage over Saudi Arabia fuels nuclear proliferation concerns

Summary

The U.S. and Saudi Arabia recently signed a nuclear energy deal that may allow Saudi Arabia to enrich uranium, a step that raises concerns about nuclear weapons spread. President Donald Trump linked the deal’s approval to Saudi Arabia joining a peace agreement with Israel called the Abraham Accords, although this condition is not in the official agreement.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. and Saudi Arabia signed a nuclear energy deal that may permit uranium enrichment in Saudi Arabia.
  • The deal does not currently require extra international monitoring for uranium enrichment activities.
  • President Trump said on social media that approval of the deal depends on Saudi Arabia joining the Abraham Accords with Israel.
  • The signed agreement does not explicitly mention Israel or include Saudi Arabia’s commitment to the Abraham Accords.
  • A two-year U.S. study will determine if Saudi Arabia should enrich uranium or import nuclear fuel instead.
  • The study ends near the time President Trump’s term finishes in 2027, potentially affecting further negotiations.
  • U.S. officials see the agreement as a way to gain leverage over Saudi Arabia.
  • Saudi Arabia has not publicly responded yet to President Trump’s statement about linking the deal to the Abraham Accords.
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South Carolina on cusp of being first 2028 Democratic presidential primary state

South Carolina on cusp of being first 2028 Democratic presidential primary state

Summary

South Carolina is close to being the first state to hold the 2028 Democratic presidential primary. The Democratic National Committee’s Rules and Bylaws Committee recommended this, and the full committee will vote on it next month.

Key Facts

  • South Carolina wants to keep its spot as the first state in the Democratic presidential primary for 2028.
  • The Democratic National Committee’s Rules and Bylaws Committee voted to recommend South Carolina for this role.
  • The full Democratic National Committee will vote on the proposed calendar at its summer meeting in Austin, Texas.
  • Nevada was the other main state considered to be first in the primary calendar.
  • South Carolina argues its first-primary status is important because of the impact of a Supreme Court ruling on voting rights and Black voter representation in the South.
  • South Carolina held the first Democratic presidential primary in 2024 as well.
  • Some South Carolina Democratic leaders say removing its status would hurt the party’s Black voter base, which has been very loyal.
  • The debate involves choosing between states with consistent Democratic voters and those with fast-growing populations.
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US measles cases reach 35-year high

US measles cases reach 35-year high

Summary

The US has reached the highest number of measles cases in 35 years, with 2,318 confirmed cases in 2026 so far. This rise is linked to lower vaccination rates and growing vaccine hesitancy. Health officials may decide soon if the US loses its status of having eliminated measles after sustained spread of the virus.

Key Facts

  • The US reported 2,318 measles cases in the first seven months of 2026, surpassing last year's total of 2,289 cases.
  • Measles is highly contagious and can cause serious health problems, including death and long-term complications.
  • The US might lose its measles elimination status due to continuous virus transmission.
  • 45 states have reported measles cases, including recent outbreaks in Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Utah.
  • Vaccine hesitancy has contributed to lower immunization rates, with some communities having vaccination rates as low as 20%.
  • Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has faced criticism for mixed messages about vaccines and changes to vaccine policies.
  • The US recommends two doses of the MMR vaccine for children, which is 97% effective at preventing measles.
  • Herd immunity requires about 95% of people to be vaccinated to prevent outbreaks.
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Oman talking with Tehran on Hormuz as US and Iran continue strikes

Oman talking with Tehran on Hormuz as US and Iran continue strikes

Summary

Oman sent a delegation to Iran to talk about managing ship traffic in the Strait of Hormuz, a key waterway for global oil trade. This comes as the United States and Iran continue exchanging attacks, and tensions rise with new blockades and strikes in the region.

Key Facts

  • Omani diplomats arrived in Tehran to discuss navigation rules for the Strait of Hormuz with Iranian officials.
  • The Strait of Hormuz is crucial, as about 20% of the world’s oil and gas exports pass through it.
  • The U.S. and Iran have been exchanging air strikes for two weeks, despite earlier efforts for a peace agreement.
  • Iran wants to manage the strait together with Oman, but the U.S. and Gulf states do not agree to this arrangement.
  • Oman is strategically located at the strait’s entrance and exit and acts as a mediator in regional conflicts.
  • Houthi rebels in Yemen declared a naval blockade against Saudi Arabia and continue attacks on tankers in nearby straits.
  • Iran’s military attacked U.S. bases in Kuwait, Bahrain, and Jordan, and targeted Amazon’s data center in Bahrain for supporting the U.S.
  • Recent U.S. strikes on Iran resulted in deaths and injuries, with Iranian sources reporting at least 55 killed and 650 injured.
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If Trump really cares about forced labor, he should look at the US – rather than slap more tariffs on the world

If Trump really cares about forced labor, he should look at the US – rather than slap more tariffs on the world

Summary

The Trump administration imposed new tariffs on many countries, saying they use forced labor to make goods. However, forced labor is also a problem within the United States, including forced prison labor, which the government allows under the Constitution. Critics note that the U.S. imports many products linked to forced labor and does not fully enforce its own rules against it.

Key Facts

  • The Trump administration reimposed tariffs of 10% or 12.5% on imports from 60 countries, citing forced labor concerns.
  • These tariffs began after a previous 10% tariff expired, which was originally justified by financial concerns.
  • The U.S. imports about $170 billion worth of goods that may involve forced labor at some point in their supply chains.
  • Forced labor is common in U.S. industries like electronics, clothing, fish, and minerals sourced from abroad.
  • According to the Global Slavery Index, 1.1 million people in the U.S. lived in modern slavery in 2021, mostly in domestic work, agriculture, and construction.
  • The U.S. allows forced labor in its prison system, where about 800,000 prisoners work, often under threat of punishment.
  • Other countries with tariffs imposed by the U.S., like Canada, have lower rates of forced labor among their populations.
  • While the U.S. bans imports made with forced labor on paper, enforcement of these laws is weak or inconsistent.
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ICC chief prosecutor Karim Khan dismissed over sexual misconduct allegations, sources say

ICC chief prosecutor Karim Khan dismissed over sexual misconduct allegations, sources say

Summary

Karim Khan, the chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC), was voted out by member states due to sexual misconduct allegations. He was temporarily removed from his duties in June, and this dismissal is the first time an ICC chief prosecutor has been removed from office.

Key Facts

  • The ICC’s 125 member states voted to remove Karim Khan by a large majority.
  • Khan has been accused of sexual misconduct with a female aide, which he denies.
  • An ICC oversight report found he committed “serious misconduct.”
  • Khan was temporarily suspended from his role in June before the final vote.
  • The vote was secret, and some countries like the Netherlands, France, and Norway publicly supported his dismissal.
  • Khan was not present at the vote because he is barred from entering the US due to sanctions from President Trump’s administration.
  • The ICC has faced political pressure, especially from the US, after investigating Israeli officials.
  • This is the first time an ICC chief prosecutor has been removed from office.
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Trump’s Israel condition on Saudi nuclear deal

Trump’s Israel condition on Saudi nuclear deal

Summary

President Donald Trump is offering Saudi Arabia nuclear technology on the condition that Saudi Arabia formally recognizes Israel. This proposal raises questions about which countries in the Middle East should be allowed to have nuclear power.

Key Facts

  • President Trump wants Saudi Arabia to recognize Israel before providing nuclear technology.
  • Saudi Arabia does not currently have formal diplomatic relations with Israel.
  • The offer ties nuclear technology access to political recognition between countries.
  • There is concern about how nuclear power is distributed among Middle Eastern countries.
  • The issue reflects tensions and diplomacy challenges in the Middle East.
  • Nuclear technology can be used for energy or weapons, making its control sensitive.
  • This proposal is part of broader efforts to manage regional security and alliances.
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Democratic panel picks South Carolina as first primary state

Democratic panel picks South Carolina as first primary state

Summary

The Democratic National Committee’s special rules committee has voted to make South Carolina the first state to hold a Democratic presidential primary in 2028. This recommendation will soon be considered by the full Democratic National Committee in Austin, Texas.

Key Facts

  • South Carolina is poised to be the first state for the 2028 Democratic presidential primary.
  • The decision was made by the Democratic National Committee’s rules and bylaws committee.
  • This approval is a recommendation, not yet final.
  • The full Democratic National Committee will review the recommendation soon.
  • The review meeting is scheduled to take place in Austin, Texas.
  • The change affects the order of states holding primaries for the Democratic Party.
  • The move aims to set the early stages for the 2028 presidential candidate selection.
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How Trump's new round of tariffs could impact businesses and consumers

How Trump's new round of tariffs could impact businesses and consumers

Summary

President Donald Trump announced a new set of tariffs targeting imports linked to forced labor. The markets showed only a small reaction to this announcement. The tariffs aim to address labor rights concerns but could affect businesses and shoppers.

Key Facts

  • President Trump introduced new tariffs on Thursday.
  • The tariffs focus on goods made using forced labor.
  • Financial markets reacted mildly to the news.
  • The tariffs may increase costs for companies that import these goods.
  • Consumers could face higher prices because of these tariffs.
  • The move is part of efforts to address human rights issues in supply chains.
  • Details on specific products or countries affected were not given in the summary.
  • The announcement was covered by CBS News and reported by Kelly O’Grady.
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Trump fires back at EU over Google’s $1B fine, launches probe

Trump fires back at EU over Google’s $1B fine, launches probe

Summary

President Donald Trump criticized the European Union for fining Google nearly $1 billion, calling the fine unfair. He announced that the U.S. will start an investigation into these actions as a possible trade issue.

Key Facts

  • The European Union fined Google about $1 billion for breaking its digital competition laws.
  • President Trump called the EU’s actions illegal and discriminatory.
  • Trump said the EU is targeting major American companies.
  • He announced a new trade investigation into the EU’s practices.
  • The issue centers on rules that aim to keep internet companies from harming competition.
  • Trump shared his views on the social media platform Truth Social.
  • This investigation could affect trade relations between the U.S. and the EU.
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Trump to meet with Zelenskyy amid pressure for military support against Russia

Trump to meet with Zelenskyy amid pressure for military support against Russia

Summary

President Donald Trump will meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to discuss military support as Ukraine advances against Russia. The U.S. government also recently put new tariffs on many countries due to concerns about forced labor.

Key Facts

  • President Trump plans to meet with President Zelenskyy on Tuesday.
  • The meeting focuses on military aid for Ukraine amid its conflict with Russia.
  • Ukraine has made gains in its ongoing conflict with Russia.
  • The Trump administration imposed new tariffs on several countries.
  • The tariffs were introduced because of worries about forced labor in those countries.
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The week around the world in 20 pictures

The week around the world in 20 pictures

Summary

This article shows 20 photos from major events around the world, including missile attacks in Ukraine, protests in Kyiv, violence and tensions in Gaza and the West Bank, and severe wildfires in France and Spain caused by extreme heat. The images highlight ongoing conflicts and the impact of climate change on different regions.

Key Facts

  • Russian missile strikes caused damage and casualties in Kyiv, Ukraine.
  • Ukrainian drones attacked multiple warehouses of a Russian online retailer, causing deaths and destruction.
  • Protests occurred in Kyiv after the dismissal of Ukraine’s defense leaders.
  • Israeli military attacks and settler violence led to deaths and injuries in Gaza and the West Bank.
  • Plans were announced to build illegal settlements in Gaza and expand construction in the West Bank.
  • Heatwaves in southern Europe have caused severe wildfires, forcing tens of thousands to evacuate in France and Spain.
  • Wildfires threaten popular vacation spots on the French Atlantic coast.
  • These events show the combination of armed conflict and climate emergencies affecting many people globally.
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Judge rebuffs Trump admin demand for phone records from NYT reporters

Judge rebuffs Trump admin demand for phone records from NYT reporters

Summary

A federal judge criticized the Department of Justice for trying to get phone records and grand jury testimony from New York Times reporters. The government then withdrew the subpoenas after the judge said such actions against journalists should be a last resort.

Key Facts

  • The Justice Department sought phone and text records from New York Times reporters and some of their family members.
  • The subpoenas also demanded reporters testify before a federal grand jury.
  • US District Judge Arun Subramanian said subpoenas against reporters should be used only as a last option.
  • The government agreed to cancel the subpoenas during a July 23, 2026, hearing.
  • The New York Times called the government's actions an attempt to intimidate the press.
  • The subpoenas were related to reporting on security issues involving Air Force One, donated to President Trump by Qatar.
  • The DOJ admitted errors, including failing to mention that the case involved journalists when seeking to block a phone company from releasing records.
  • Some subpoenas mistakenly included reporters’ relatives, which the DOJ said was an unintended error.
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