Senator Bill Cassidy from Louisiana met with Vice President JD Vance and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff at the White House to get an update on the situation with Iran. This meeting happened after Cassidy had a strong disagreement with President Trump earlier that day.
Key Facts
Senator Bill Cassidy is from Louisiana and is a Republican.
Cassidy had a heated argument with President Donald Trump during a meeting.
Later the same day, Cassidy received a briefing about Iran from Vice President JD Vance and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff.
The briefing took place at the White House.
The discussion focused on the ongoing conflict involving Iran.
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A new Quinnipiac poll shows President Donald Trump’s approval rating among independent voters has risen to 34 percent, his highest since December. Despite this increase, his overall approval remains below 40 percent, and many voters express skepticism about recent U.S. military actions in the Middle East.
Key Facts
President Trump’s approval rating among independents rose to 34 percent in the latest poll.
This is the highest approval among independents since December, but still below a majority.
Overall, Trump has a 38 percent approval rating and a 55 percent disapproval rating.
Polling was done from June 18 to June 22, surveying 1,165 registered voters.
60 percent of voters said recent U.S. military action against Iran was not worth it.
Nearly half of voters think the U.S. is too supportive of Israel.
Operation Epic Fury was a joint U.S.-Israel military action against Iran in February.
The poll shows mixed feelings about Trump’s foreign policy among voters, especially independents.
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President Donald Trump began America’s 250th independence celebration with a political rally at the Great American State Fair on the National Mall in Washington, DC. The event featured Trump highlighting his administration’s achievements and included patriotic themes, although some performers and states withdrew due to political concerns.
Key Facts
President Trump opened the Great American State Fair, marking the start of America's 250th year of independence.
He spoke about the country’s progress, mentioning a deal with Iran, immigration enforcement, and a tax bill.
The Lincoln Memorial reflecting pool was renovated for the celebration, costing about $14.1 million.
Trump claimed vandalism caused damage to the reflecting pool’s liner, but no evidence was provided.
Many scheduled performers, including popular musicians, withdrew because they felt the event became politically focused.
Some states chose not to participate in the event for similar reasons.
The FBI director’s girlfriend sang the national anthem at the event and denied nepotism claims.
Other events on the National Mall included a UFC fight and a Patriot Games contest for high school students with scholarships as prizes.
The Trump administration has faced criticism for removing materials about slavery, Indigenous people, and climate from national monuments but was ordered to restore them.
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A strong earthquake with a magnitude of 6.9 hit off the northern coast of Japan, near Iwate, but officials said there was no tsunami risk. The quake caused some shaking in Tokyo and northeastern towns, but no injuries or damage have been reported so far.
Key Facts
The earthquake struck off Japan’s eastern coast near Iwate at a depth of about 50 kilometers (30 miles).
Both Japan’s Meteorological Agency and the U.S. Geological Survey reported the magnitude as 6.9.
The quake occurred during the morning rush hour in northeastern Japan and was felt mildly in Tokyo.
No injuries or damage have been reported immediately after the quake.
Some bullet trains and local trains were stopped for safety checks in the affected regions.
Nuclear plants, including Fukushima Daiichi, showed no problems after the earthquake.
Officials warned people to be cautious of potential aftershocks.
This area has had repeated strong quakes in recent months and is located on the Pacific Ring of Fire, a region known for frequent earthquakes.
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A strong earthquake measuring 7.2 struck off northern Japan's coast during the morning rush hour, causing shaking in many towns and some minor injuries but no serious damage. Officials said there was no tsunami risk, and safety checks were carried out on trains and nuclear facilities.
Key Facts
The earthquake occurred off the eastern coast of Iwate prefecture.
Its magnitude was upgraded from 6.9 to 7.2, at a depth of about 50 kilometers (30 miles).
Eight people were injured in Aomori and Iwate prefectures, mostly from falling objects.
The shaking was felt as far away as Tokyo and lasted a few minutes in some areas.
No tsunami warning was issued after the quake.
Bullet trains and local train lines in northeastern Japan were temporarily stopped for safety checks.
Nuclear plants, including Fukushima Daiichi, reported no problems.
Schools in affected towns canceled classes, and children returned home safely.
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A video shows the moment when an earthquake hit the airport in Maiquetía, Venezuela. The video captures the shaking as the earthquake occurs at the airport.
Key Facts
The earthquake struck Maiquetía airport in Venezuela.
A video recorded the exact moment of the earthquake at the airport.
The news was published about 6 hours ago.
Maiquetía is a location in Venezuela.
The event relates to natural seismic activity.
No information about damage or injuries was provided in the article.
The video requires JavaScript enabled to be viewed online.
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Two strong earthquakes hit Venezuela on Wednesday evening, causing buildings to collapse in Caracas and shaking residents. The first quake measured 7.1 in magnitude, and the second, occurring a minute later, was even stronger at 7.5. Authorities warned of aftershocks and potential injuries, and tsunami alerts were issued for nearby islands.
Key Facts
The first earthquake had a magnitude of 7.1 with its center 168 km west of Caracas near Morón.
The second earthquake, one minute after the first, measured 7.5 in magnitude near Morón.
Both quakes were very strong and among the biggest in Venezuela in over 100 years.
The quakes caused buildings to collapse and people evacuated in Caracas.
Authorities reported injuries and urged people to be careful, especially children and elderly.
A tsunami alert was issued for the Virgin Islands and the Dominican Republic.
Aftershocks are expected, so officials advised people to stay outside for safety.
Venezuela usually has fewer earthquakes because of its location compared to other Latin American countries like Mexico and Chile.
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Postmaster General David Steiner said the U.S. Postal Service will stop delivering mail-in ballots in states that do not share certain voter data with the federal government. This plan follows a rule proposed by the Trump administration.
Key Facts
The USPS will withhold delivery of mail-in ballots in some states.
This action targets states that refuse to share sensitive voter data with the federal government.
The rule comes from the Trump administration’s proposal.
David Steiner, the Postmaster General, announced this decision during a Senate committee hearing.
The Senate committee involved is the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee.
The sensitive voter data is linked to the federal oversight of elections.
The move aims to enforce cooperation between states and the federal government regarding voter information.
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Two strong earthquakes hit Venezuela near its capital, Caracas, causing damage to buildings. The U.S. Geological Survey warned that many people could be hurt and that the damage might be very serious.
Key Facts
Two earthquakes occurred in Venezuela on Wednesday.
The earthquakes measured magnitude 7.2 and 7.5.
They struck west of Caracas, the capital city.
Buildings in Caracas were damaged by the quakes.
The U.S. Geological Survey issued a red alert.
This alert means there is a high chance of many injuries and big economic losses.
Officials expect heavy casualties and widespread damage.
The situation is still developing, with more updates expected.
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Russian opposition politician Maxim Kruglov was sentenced to seven years in prison for two social media posts about the war in Ukraine in 2022. He denies the charges and says the punishment is meant to stop people from speaking against the government.
Key Facts
Maxim Kruglov is a deputy leader of Russia’s Yabloko party, which is a liberal opposition group.
He posted two messages on Telegram in 2022 related to the war in Ukraine.
Russian authorities sentenced him to seven years in prison for these posts.
Kruglov says he is innocent and calls the case a way to silence opposition.
The case highlights Russia’s strict controls on public speech about the Ukraine conflict.
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A female Victorian Liberal Party MP has accused a fellow party member of assaulting her at a community event. Police are investigating the incident, and the accused MP denies the allegation and may take legal action. The situation has caused unrest in the party shortly before the state election.
Key Facts
The alleged assault happened at a community event last month and was reported to police on June 16.
Victoria police confirmed the investigation is ongoing, and the people involved know each other.
The accused MP denies the assault claim and may sue for defamation.
Both MPs have not been publicly named, and both were contacted for comment.
CCTV footage of the incident has circulated and been viewed by media.
Opposition leader Jess Wilson said the parties deserve privacy and due process during the police investigation.
Attorney General Sonya Kilkenny questioned whether Wilson’s party is handling the situation properly and if the Parliamentary Workplace Standards and Integrity Commission has been involved.
The allegation comes five months before the Victorian state election, adding pressure to the Liberal party already facing competition and internal divisions.
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An Air Canada flight from Newark to Halifax was diverted to Boston after the pilot had a seizure mid-flight. Passengers and crew helped restrain the pilot for about 40 minutes while the co-pilot safely landed the plane in Boston.
Key Facts
The incident happened on Air Canada Flight AC7664, operated by PAL Airlines.
The pilot suffered a medical emergency believed to be a seizure.
The plane was a De Havilland Q400 carrying 61 passengers.
The first officer took control and diverted the flight to Boston.
Passengers and flight attendants helped restrain the pilot to prevent harm.
A registered nurse on board assisted during the emergency.
Emergency responders met the plane after landing, and the pilot was taken to a hospital.
Air Canada is arranging alternate travel for passengers on the flight.
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The U.S. military has started requiring flu vaccines again for recruits despite an earlier decision to make the vaccine optional. This change comes after a flu outbreak at Lackland Air Force Base, where many trainees have become sick.
Key Facts
All U.S. military branches now require flu vaccines for new recruits starting this month.
This rule is an exception to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s previous decision to make flu vaccines voluntary.
Lackland Air Force Base in Texas has had a recent flu outbreak with 275 cases among trainees.
The outbreak led to increased health measures, including monitoring exposed trainees and treating symptoms with antiviral drugs like Tamiflu.
Military departments requested exemptions to keep flu vaccines mandatory for certain groups, such as people living in close quarters and healthcare workers.
The Pentagon reviewed the risk and concluded that flu vaccines help maintain military readiness and protect vulnerable personnel.
Flu vaccines have been required for troops on and off since 1945, except for a few periods.
The military also required COVID-19 vaccines until the mandate was lifted, with some service members returning after refusing the shots.
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A recent earthquake caused buildings to collapse in Caracas, the capital of Venezuela. Emergency teams are responding to the damage and assessing the situation.
Key Facts
The earthquake struck Caracas, Venezuela.
Several buildings collapsed due to the quake.
Emergency responders are working on the site.
The exact strength of the earthquake was not mentioned.
Authorities are assessing damage and safety conditions.
The event has drawn attention from the local community.
No information was given on casualties or injuries.
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House Democrats are preparing for a larger and more outspoken group of left-wing members, called democratic socialists, to join Congress in 2027. This new group is expected to be more active and independent, which could create challenges for party leaders trying to keep unity.
Key Facts
The number of Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) members in Congress will more than double after recent primary wins.
New DSA members include Claire Valdez and Darializa Avila Chevalier from New York and Chris Rabb from Pennsylvania.
Currently, Reps. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Rashida Tlaib are DSA members.
Several new left-wing candidates have won primaries or are challenging incumbents in various states.
These progressive members are coordinating and plan to work together as a group in Congress.
Some Democrats worry this group may cause conflicts, similar to the GOP Freedom Caucus in 2023.
Democratic leaders say they will try to build relationships and include these new members in the party.
House Democratic leaders express confidence in managing this dynamic despite potential difficulties.
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President Donald Trump is delaying the signing of a housing bill that has strong support from both political parties. He wants the Senate to first approve a voting law called the Save America Act, which would change election rules by requiring proof of citizenship to register and limit mail-in voting.
Key Facts
The 21st Century Road to Housing Act aims to lower housing costs and increase housing supply in the US.
The housing bill passed both the Senate and House with large bipartisan majorities.
President Trump called the housing bill “of minor importance” and refused to sign it until the voting bill passes.
The Save America Act would require voters to show proof of citizenship and reduce mail-in voting options.
Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer criticized Trump’s decision to block the housing bill.
A federal judge blocked Trump’s executive order that would require proof of citizenship to vote.
Trump has also ordered a Justice Department investigation into oil companies over gas prices.
There is a legal dispute over removing Trump’s name from the Kennedy Center building.
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China’s government-backed SpaceSail project is building a satellite internet system to compete with Elon Musk’s Starlink. SpaceSail has launched about 200 satellites so far and plans to expand its network to over 15,000 satellites to provide global broadband internet.
Key Facts
SpaceSail is run by Shanghai Spacecom Satellite Technology (SSST), funded by the Chinese government and related organizations.
The project aims to offer high-speed, secure internet worldwide and support national security and overseas Chinese interests.
SpaceSail first launched satellites in August 2024 and has since sent up multiple groups, reaching around 200 satellites in orbit.
It plans to start commercial services soon, such as tracking ships at sea, and expand to 648 satellites by the end of 2026.
The ultimate goal is to have more than 15,000 satellites for full global coverage, with over 10,000 satellites expected by 2030.
Starlink currently operates over 10,400 satellites and serves more than 12 million users in 160 countries.
SpaceSail targets regions where Starlink has faced political or regulatory challenges.
SpaceSail also faces competition in China from SatNet, another state-owned company developing a similar satellite internet network.
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President Donald Trump asked Congress for $87.6 billion in extra money, mainly to cover costs related to the war with Iran. Lawmakers from both parties are debating the president’s war powers and whether military action against Iran should have had Congress’s approval.
Key Facts
The total requested amount is $87.6 billion in supplemental funding.
$67 billion would go to the Defense Department for things like weapons, military operations, and secret programs.
$21 billion is for munitions (weapons and ammunition).
$17.3 billion is for operational costs of the military.
$12.1 billion is for classified (secret) military programs.
$11.1 billion would help farmers.
$1.4 billion would support efforts to fight the Ebola outbreak in Central Africa.
The Senate recently passed a resolution trying to limit military action against Iran without congressional approval.
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Two strong earthquakes hit Venezuela on Wednesday evening, causing buildings to collapse in Caracas and other areas. Officials warned that many people might be hurt and there is likely widespread damage, especially in the capital and nearby coastal city La Guaira.
Key Facts
The first earthquake was magnitude 7.1, located near Morón, 104 miles west of Caracas, at a depth of 8 miles.
Minutes later, a stronger quake of magnitude 7.5 struck near Morón at a depth of 10 km (6 miles).
Officials said high casualties and extensive damage are likely from these earthquakes.
Buildings in Caracas, including homes and businesses in the Altamira neighborhood, collapsed or were severely damaged.
La Guaira, a port city with Venezuela’s main international airport, also suffered heavy damage.
The Simón Bolívar International Airport roof was damaged, causing travelers to take cover.
Rescuers and officials urged people to stay outside as aftershocks pose additional risks.
The mayor of the Chacao district confirmed there are deaths but did not provide exact numbers yet.
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