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Top Democrats press Maine senate candidate to drop out of race over sexual assault allegation

Top Democrats press Maine senate candidate to drop out of race over sexual assault allegation

July 07, 2026 • Us • BBC US

Summary

Top Democrats are urging Graham Platner, the Democratic candidate for the US Senate in Maine, to leave the race after a woman accused him of sexual assault. Platner denies the claim but is considering his next steps as the race is important for Democratic control of the Senate.

Key Facts

  • Graham Platner, a Democrat running for US Senate in Maine, is accused of sexual assault by a former partner.
  • Platner denies the allegation and calls it "categorically false."
  • Several top Democrats, including Senate leaders Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand, have called for Platner to drop out.
  • The Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee will not fund Platner’s campaign if he stays in the race.
  • Other Democratic politicians, like Elizabeth Warren, Cory Booker, and Elissa Slotkin, also demand he quit the race.
  • Platner faces Republican Senator Susan Collins in the November election, a key race for Senate control.
  • Platner must withdraw by July 13 for a replacement candidate to appear on the ballot.
  • The accuser, Jenny Racicot, says Platner entered her home uninvited and assaulted her while intoxicated.
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Poll: Majority of Maine voters would want Platner to drop out after another scandal

Poll: Majority of Maine voters would want Platner to drop out after another scandal

July 07, 2026 • Us • The Hill

Summary

A recent poll shows that most voters in Maine want Senate candidate Graham Platner to quit if he is involved in another scandal. The poll was conducted by Wedgewood Polls and focused on the Maine Senate race.

Key Facts

  • The poll was released on a Monday.
  • 75 percent of Maine voters said Platner should drop out if another scandal happens.
  • The poll was done by Wedgewood Polls.
  • The focus is on the Maine Senate race.
  • Graham Platner is a Democratic candidate.
  • Voter opinion reflects concern about potential future scandals.
  • The poll results reflect current attitudes toward Platner’s candidacy.
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The Hill
Live: Ukraine launches over 400 drones towards Moscow ahead of NATO summit

Live: Ukraine launches over 400 drones towards Moscow ahead of NATO summit

July 07, 2026 • World • France24

Summary

Ukraine launched over 430 drones towards Moscow overnight, with many shot down before reaching the city. One person died in a Ukrainian strike in Russia’s Belgorod region. Ahead of a NATO summit, European countries plan to announce large defense deals to boost military spending.

Key Facts

  • Ukraine sent more than 430 drones toward Moscow between evening and early morning.
  • Moscow’s mayor said most drones were destroyed before getting close to the city.
  • A Ukrainian strike in Russia’s Belgorod region killed one civilian and caused a fire.
  • Another Ukrainian drone attack caused a fire at an industrial facility in Russia's Kaluga region, with no casualties reported.
  • NATO leaders will reveal defense deals worth tens of billions of dollars in Turkey before their summit.
  • European countries have increased defense spending significantly, partly due to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
  • NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte emphasized the need to keep supporting Ukraine’s defense.
  • President Donald Trump is attending the NATO summit with other leaders in Ankara.
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France24
Cuba sees nationwide power blackout for third time in six months

Cuba sees nationwide power blackout for third time in six months

July 07, 2026 • World • Al Jazeera

Summary

Cuba experienced its third nationwide power blackout this year due to fuel shortages and damage to its electric grid. The US has imposed a fuel blockade on Cuba, limiting oil deliveries and worsening the energy crisis, leading to frequent blackouts and power cuts.

Key Facts

  • Cuba had its third country-wide power outage since the start of the year.
  • The state electric company is investigating the cause of the blackout.
  • Vital services like hospitals and food centers still get some electricity during outages.
  • Cuba’s fuel shortage worsened after President Donald Trump stopped Venezuelan oil deliveries to the island in January.
  • The US has allowed only one Russian oil tanker to dock in Cuba this year amid sanctions.
  • Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel blamed the US for trying to create unrest by cutting fuel supplies.
  • Parts of Havana have faced over 30 hours of power cuts, and some rural areas over 70 hours.
  • Residents report very limited daily electricity, sometimes just three or four hours.
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Al Jazeera
Russia sends weapons to help Mali’s government hold off rebel siege

Russia sends weapons to help Mali’s government hold off rebel siege

July 07, 2026 • World • Al Jazeera

Summary

The Russian navy is delivering weapons to Mali to help the government fight rebels. The rebels, including groups linked to Al-Qaeda and Tuareg separatists, are attacking northern Mali. Russian-supported forces are assisting Mali’s military leaders to prevent their government from falling.

Key Facts

  • Russia is sending weapons to Mali by sea.
  • Mali faces a siege in the northern region.
  • Rebel groups include militants linked to Al-Qaeda and Tuareg separatists.
  • Mali’s government is controlled by a military junta (military leaders in charge).
  • Russian-backed forces are actively supporting Mali’s military.
  • The weapons shipment aims to help Mali resist the rebel attack.
  • The situation involves a conflict between government forces and rebel groups in West Africa.
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Al Jazeera
Zelensky to press Nato for air defence systems after intense Russian strikes

Zelensky to press Nato for air defence systems after intense Russian strikes

July 07, 2026 • World • BBC World

Summary

Ukraine’s President Zelensky plans to ask NATO allies at a meeting in Turkey for more air defense systems to protect Ukraine from increased Russian missile attacks. He will also meet with President Donald Trump to push for pressure on Russia to enter peace talks amid ongoing fighting and missile strikes.

Key Facts

  • Ukraine has faced intense Russian missile attacks recently, killing over 50 civilians in Kyiv.
  • Zelensky wants NATO to provide more air defense systems like Patriot missiles to stop Russian ballistic missiles.
  • Ukraine struggles to intercept all Russian missiles due to limited air defense supplies.
  • Russia accuses Ukraine of "terrorism" for attacking its oil refineries with drones.
  • Ukraine is increasing its own drone attacks on Russian military targets, causing fuel shortages and power cuts in Russia.
  • NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte urged members to support Ukraine’s defense efforts.
  • Zelensky aims to push Russia toward peace talks without Ukraine surrendering territory in the eastern Donbas region.
  • Ukraine is exploring building its own air defense systems with NATO help due to shortages of Western missiles.
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Former coach at Bucknell University charged in death of freshman football player

Former coach at Bucknell University charged in death of freshman football player

July 07, 2026 • Us • AP News

Summary

A former strength and conditioning coach at Bucknell University was charged after a freshman football player died from intense exercise during training. The player had a medical condition called sickle-cell trait, which made extreme workouts dangerous for him.

Key Facts

  • The player, Calvin “CJ” Dickey Jr., was a freshman football player at Bucknell University who collapsed during training in July 2024.
  • Coach Mark Kulbis instructed Dickey and others to do 100 “up-downs” and plank drills during the session.
  • Dickey had sickle-cell trait, a condition that can cause serious health risks during heavy exercise.
  • Dickey passed out during the drills and died two days later in the hospital.
  • An autopsy showed the death was caused by the exercise, his medical condition, body weight, and a rare muscle breakdown called exertional rhabdomyolysis.
  • Kulbis knew about Dickey’s medical condition and had been trained on how to handle it but still pushed him to do the exercises.
  • Kulbis faces felony and misdemeanor charges including aggravated hazing, involuntary manslaughter, reckless endangerment, and hazing.
  • Bucknell University is cooperating with the investigation but will not comment due to ongoing legal matters.
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AP News
What to know about NATO’s summit in Turkey as America steps back from its defense of Europe

What to know about NATO’s summit in Turkey as America steps back from its defense of Europe

July 07, 2026 • World • AP News

Summary

President Donald Trump and leaders from 32 NATO countries are meeting in Turkey for a two-day summit. The meeting comes as the U.S. reduces its military role in Europe, and aims to discuss a stronger Europe and a renewed NATO partnership.

Key Facts

  • The NATO summit is held in Ankara, Turkey, hosted by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
  • The U.S. has stepped back from its usual defense role in Europe, causing tension among NATO members.
  • President Trump emphasized “loyalty” from NATO countries that have resisted letting U.S. forces use their bases for attacks on Iran.
  • The summit’s theme is focused on building "a stronger Europe in a stronger NATO."
  • Security is very tight, with many police officers on duty and some areas closed to the public.
  • More than a dozen people were detained before the summit, including two journalists.
  • Officials from Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, Gulf Arab countries, and Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy are attending some meetings.
  • President Trump will meet with Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa during the summit.
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AP News
Venezuela earthquakes death toll jumps to more than 3,500

Venezuela earthquakes death toll jumps to more than 3,500

July 07, 2026 • World • Al Jazeera

Summary

More than 3,500 people have died after two earthquakes hit Venezuela near Caracas and La Guaira on June 24. Thousands of buildings were damaged, many people are injured or homeless, and health problems are increasing in crowded shelters.

Key Facts

  • The death toll from the earthquakes is 3,535.
  • Around 16,740 people were injured.
  • Nearly 18,000 people lost their homes.
  • About 12,800 people are staying in 80 shelters in Caracas and La Guaira.
  • The earthquakes measured magnitudes 7.2 and 7.5 and happened seconds apart.
  • Approximately 60,000 buildings were damaged or destroyed.
  • Medical experts warn of rising infections and diseases due to poor shelter conditions.
  • Citizens and volunteers have been leading rescue and aid efforts as government response is limited.
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Al Jazeera
Tanker set ablaze after being struck by projectile in the Strait of Hormuz off the coast of Oman

Tanker set ablaze after being struck by projectile in the Strait of Hormuz off the coast of Oman

July 07, 2026 • World • AP News

Summary

A tanker caught fire early Tuesday after being hit by a projectile near Oman in the Strait of Hormuz, according to the British military. There was no immediate report of environmental damage, and authorities are investigating the incident.

Key Facts

  • The tanker was struck near Limah, Oman, in the Strait of Hormuz.
  • The projectile hit the left side (port side) of the tanker.
  • The tanker was heading south out of the strait toward the Gulf of Oman.
  • No environmental harm was reported from the strike.
  • The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations center provided the information.
  • No group has taken responsibility for the attack yet.
  • Iran is suspected of attacking other vessels in the same area recently.
  • The Strait of Hormuz is a key waterway for commercial ships in the region.
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AP News
Details scarce as Mitch McConnell ‘continues recovery’ in hospital

Details scarce as Mitch McConnell ‘continues recovery’ in hospital

July 07, 2026 • Us • Guardian World

Summary

Senator Mitch McConnell has been recovering in a hospital since June 14, with only limited information given about his health. His office says he is improving but has not shared detailed updates, and it is unclear if he will return to the Senate when it resumes.

Key Facts

  • Mitch McConnell, 84, was hospitalized on June 14 and is receiving medical care.
  • His office reports he is continuing to improve but has not shared specific health details.
  • McConnell has had multiple hospital visits and health incidents in recent years.
  • In 2023, he suffered a concussion from a fall and missed weeks of work.
  • He has had other falls, including a sprained wrist and a fractured shoulder requiring surgery.
  • McConnell had polio as a child, which affects his walking ability.
  • He was the longest-serving Senate leader and is finishing his final term ending in January.
  • McConnell often uses a wheelchair when working in the Senate.
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Guardian World Guardian US
State authorities investigating fatal National Guard shooting of Memphis man

State authorities investigating fatal National Guard shooting of Memphis man

July 07, 2026 • Us • ABC News

Summary

State authorities in Tennessee are investigating the fatal shooting of 20-year-old Tyrin Johnson by two National Guard members in Memphis. The guardsmen fired after Johnson reportedly pointed a handgun at them during a foot chase early Sunday morning.

Key Facts

  • The shooting happened around 4 a.m. Sunday in Memphis.
  • Tyrin Johnson was shot and killed by two National Guard troops.
  • The National Guard was working with Memphis police as part of the Memphis Safe Task Force.
  • Guardsmen fired after Johnson reportedly aimed a gun at them.
  • The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) is leading the investigation.
  • About 1,472 National Guardsmen remain deployed in Memphis under orders paid by the federal government but controlled by the state governor.
  • National Guard troops are usually involved in support roles and not direct policing.
  • Local officials, including Memphis Mayor Paul Young and State Senator London Lamar, have called for a thorough and transparent investigation.
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Iran resumes attacks in Strait of Hormuz after lull, U.S. officials say

Iran resumes attacks in Strait of Hormuz after lull, U.S. officials say

July 07, 2026 • World • Axios

Summary

Iran fired at least two missiles at commercial ships traveling through the Strait of Hormuz after a one-week agreement with the U.S. to stop attacks expired. The attacks caused damage to the ships but no injuries, and the situation risks undoing the recent deal between the two countries.

Key Facts

  • Iran's military fired missiles at two commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz on Monday night.
  • The attacks happened after a one-week agreement between the U.S. and Iran to halt attacks in the strait ended.
  • Both ships were significantly damaged, but no one was hurt.
  • One ship caught fire after being hit near the Omani coast.
  • The U.S. may respond with strikes against Iranian targets.
  • Recent talks between the U.S. and Iran in Doha made little progress on the issue.
  • The incident threatens the memorandum of understanding signed less than three weeks ago.
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Axios
Fatal Typhoon Maysak floods burst dam wall in China

Fatal Typhoon Maysak floods burst dam wall in China

July 07, 2026 • World • BBC World

Summary

A dam wall broke in Nanning, China, causing severe flooding after Typhoon Maysak passed through the area. At least two people have died because of the floodwaters, and local authorities raised their emergency response to the highest level.

Key Facts

  • Typhoon Maysak caused heavy rain that made rivers overflow in Nanning, China.
  • The wall of a reservoir burst, releasing a large amount of water.
  • At least two people have died from the flooding.
  • The city’s emergency flood control was set to the highest alert level.
  • The flood damage is linked directly to the effects of Typhoon Maysak.
  • Officials are managing the response to reduce further harm.
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BBC World BBC Top Stories
Johnny Galecki Returning to Acting After 7 Years for Renowned Playwright Role

Johnny Galecki Returning to Acting After 7 Years for Renowned Playwright Role

July 07, 2026 • World • Newsweek

Summary

Johnny Galecki, known for "The Big Bang Theory," is returning to acting after seven years. He will play famous American playwright Tennessee Williams in the Chicago play "Kowalski," running from September 19 to October 25.

Key Facts

  • Johnny Galecki is 51 years old.
  • He will perform as Tennessee Williams in the play "Kowalski" by Gregg Ostrin.
  • The play is staged by Chicago’s Lookingglass Theatre Company.
  • Colin Hanlon directs the play.
  • "Kowalski" focuses on the relationship between Tennessee Williams and actor Marlon Brando.
  • Galecki has previously acted in the Broadway play "The Little Dog Laughed."
  • Galecki was nominated for Emmy awards for his role in "The Big Bang Theory."
  • The play runs from September 19 to October 25.
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Newsweek
Why some African nations are turning down Trump aid money

Why some African nations are turning down Trump aid money

July 07, 2026 • World • BBC World

Summary

The Trump administration is offering large healthcare aid deals to African countries but with conditions that link funding to U.S. economic interests and require partner countries to increase their own health spending. Some African nations, like Ghana, Zimbabwe, and Zambia, have refused these deals due to concerns about data protection, economic ties, and government control.

Key Facts

  • President Donald Trump closed the US Agency for International Development (USAID) last year, affecting health programs in Africa.
  • The U.S. is now making direct bilateral health deals with African governments instead of funding NGOs.
  • These new deals require recipient countries to contribute their own money to healthcare.
  • Kenya signed a $2.5 billion deal with the U.S., with $1.6 billion from the U.S. and $850 million from Kenya over five years.
  • The U.S. withdrew from the World Health Organization (WHO) earlier this year and shifted away from global health cooperation toward direct national agreements.
  • U.S. deals include a promise to prioritize American pharmaceutical and medical companies.
  • Thirty-two countries have signed health agreements by mid-May, including about 20 in Africa.
  • Ghana, Zimbabwe, and Zambia have declined the deals, citing concerns like data privacy and linking health aid to access to resources.
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BBC World BBC Top Stories BBC US
Resistance and revenge - Iran wanted to send a message with its farewell to Khamenei

Resistance and revenge - Iran wanted to send a message with its farewell to Khamenei

July 07, 2026 • World • BBC World

Summary

Iran held a large funeral procession in Tehran for its slain supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, and four family members killed in air strikes. Millions attended the event, which included political messages focusing on resistance and revenge, especially aimed at the United States and Israel.

Key Facts

  • The funeral procession covered 10 kilometers through Tehran with millions of mourners.
  • The event was a major political display seen by many as a message of defiance and calls for revenge.
  • Ayatollah Khamenei and four family members died in Israeli-American air strikes on February 28.
  • Some Iranians avoided the funeral, affected by recent wars, high inflation near 80%, and anti-government protests.
  • Mourners chanted slogans like "death to America" and "death to Israel."
  • Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian defended the grief shown at the funeral, countering claims by President Trump that the sorrow was fake.
  • The funeral ceremonies continue at significant Shia Muslim sites in Iran and Iraq before the final burial in Mashhad, Khamenei’s birthplace.
  • Iranian officials and supporters expressed strong vows for revenge, targeting the United States and President Trump.
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BBC World BBC Top Stories
Trump heading to NATO summit amid tensions over defense spending, Iran war

Trump heading to NATO summit amid tensions over defense spending, Iran war

July 07, 2026 • World • CBS News

Summary

President Donald Trump will travel to Turkey to attend the annual NATO summit. He plans to discuss defense spending and the war in Iran with NATO allies.

Key Facts

  • President Trump is leaving for Turkey on Monday night.
  • He will attend the annual NATO summit.
  • NATO is a military alliance of multiple countries.
  • President Trump has criticized some allies for not spending enough on defense.
  • He has also expressed concerns about support in the war involving Iran.
  • The summit will involve discussions on these defense and Iran-related issues.
  • A defense reporter from Politico, Leo Shane III, provided analysis on the topic.
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Sri Lanka prison riot kills 26, with more than 100 others wounded

Sri Lanka prison riot kills 26, with more than 100 others wounded

July 07, 2026 • World • Guardian World

Summary

A prison riot in Sri Lanka killed 26 people, including seven guards, and injured over 100. The violence was between rival drug gangs inside Negombo Prison, and authorities are investigating the incident.

Key Facts

  • The riot happened at Negombo Prison, north of Sri Lanka’s capital, Colombo.
  • Victims had cuts, gunshot wounds, and bruises; 18 seriously injured were sent to another hospital.
  • Fighting began on Sunday evening between prisoners from two drug gangs.
  • Female inmates in a nearby section protested by climbing onto a roof, which partly collapsed causing injuries.
  • Seven prison guards died trying to stop the riot.
  • The prison holds several thousand inmates but is overcrowded, with around 41,250 prisoners in a space meant for far fewer.
  • The government formed a three-member team led by a retired supreme court justice to investigate.
  • Security forces, including drones and a helicopter, monitored the area during the riot.
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Guardian World
Why el-Obeid matters as Sudan’s war enters a new phase

Why el-Obeid matters as Sudan’s war enters a new phase

July 07, 2026 • World • Al Jazeera

Summary

More than 11,000 people, including over 5,500 children, have fled violent fighting near el-Obeid, a key city in Sudan. The United Nations warns that up to 500,000 people could be at risk if the violence grows worse, while aid groups say the fighting is causing serious problems for civilians, including damage to basic services like water and electricity.

Key Facts

  • El-Obeid is a strategic city in Sudan, important for trade, military logistics, and humanitarian aid.
  • The city is under the control of the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF).
  • Recent fighting has intensified between the SAF and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), especially in the Kordofan and Darfur regions.
  • More than 11,000 people have fled violence around el-Obeid in the past two weeks, with over half being children.
  • The conflict now includes drone attacks targeting military and civilian infrastructure like fuel, electricity, and water facilities.
  • Displaced civilians face shortages of food, water, fuel, and rising prices due to disrupted services.
  • Damage to water systems and limited aid access increase the risk of diseases such as cholera.
  • Many displaced people are being forced to move for the second or third time because of ongoing fighting.
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Al Jazeera
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