The article covers several news events including the nearing end of Sean 'Diddy' Combs' trial involving serious allegations, a large military parade planned by Trump for the US Army's anniversary, and ongoing protests in the US against immigration raids. Other events include a volcanic eruption in Hawaii and various incidents at demonstrations across the US.
Key Facts
Sean 'Diddy' Combs is involved in a trial for serious charges, and the prosecution is about to finish presenting its case.
President Trump is planning a big military parade in Washington, D.C. to celebrate 250 years of the US Army, estimated to cost between $25 million and $45 million.
Protests against immigration raids are happening in Los Angeles and have spread to other US cities.
The National Guard is training for crowd control as protests continue in downtown LA.
Hawaii's Kilauea volcano erupted for the 25th time since December 2024.
US Senator Alex Padilla was handcuffed after interrupting a press briefing in Los Angeles.
There were mixed reactions to President Trump’s appearance at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C.
Many Palestinians face a tough choice between staying in danger or leaving their homes. Those who manage to leave still deal with deep emotional pain and worry about loved ones left behind.
Key Facts
Palestinians must choose between staying in risky conditions or leaving their homes.
Many people want to leave but cannot find a way out.
Those who escape face emotional struggles from leaving loved ones and homes.
The ongoing conflict means these individuals worry about family and friends still in danger.
Healing from this experience is challenging for those who have left.
Waymo's self-driving cars, called robotaxis, are starting to carry passengers in parts of Atlanta as part of their collaboration with Uber. In Atlanta, these cars will drive without anyone in the driver’s seat, and passengers can book rides using the Uber app, just like they can in other cities.
Key Facts
Waymo is launching driverless vehicles in Atlanta with Uber's app starting Tuesday.
This expansion is part of a wider collaboration between Waymo and Uber.
Waymo's cars in Atlanta will operate over a 65-square-mile area to start.
Unlike Waymo, Tesla is using supervised robotaxis in a separate service where a person is in the passenger seat.
Uber had plans for its own driverless cars but changed strategy after legal troubles with Waymo.
Waymo is currently providing over 250,000 rides weekly with its driverless service.
Waymo’s app also operates in Phoenix, Los Angeles, and parts of the San Francisco Bay Area.
Uber aims to run 1.5 million driverless trips annually through various global partnerships.
Fifty-seven soldiers in Colombia were freed by the army after being held captive by local people in the mountains. The military did not use any weapons during the operation and arrested 20 people. The incident is linked to tensions with a rebel group involved in illegal activities.
Key Facts
Colombian soldiers were held in the Cauca region, known for rebel activity.
The EMC rebel group is active in cocaine production and was blamed for ordering the locals to capture the soldiers.
The soldiers were initially held after attempting to arrest a suspected rebel.
Over 100 locals surrounded soldiers during the arrest, preventing their departure.
A second group of soldiers was captured shortly after, involving even more locals.
The army operation to free the soldiers resulted in 20 arrests.
Most local residents rely economically on coca cultivation, complicating military presence.
The area is affected by multiple armed groups and illegal activities like extortion and drug trafficking.
A Georgian court sentenced opposition leader Giorgi Vashadze to seven months in jail for not cooperating with a government commission. This is part of a series of actions against pro-European opposition figures, which has led to ongoing protests against the ruling party in Georgia.
Key Facts
Giorgi Vashadze, an opposition leader, received a seven-month prison sentence from a court in Tbilisi, Georgia.
Vashadze was jailed for not cooperating with a commission investigating past government abuses.
Most major pro-European opposition leaders in Georgia are now imprisoned.
The ruling party, Georgian Dream, faces accusations of cracking down on democracy.
Vashadze also received a two-year ban from public office.
Protests have been ongoing in Georgia following disputed elections last year.
Georgia's prominent poet, Zviad Ratiani, was recently arrested at a protest and faces charges of assaulting a police officer.
Tropical Storm Andrea, the first of the Atlantic hurricane season, has formed. It is located far from land and is expected to weaken and disappear by Wednesday night without affecting any areas.
Key Facts
Tropical Storm Andrea is the first storm of the Atlantic hurricane season.
It is currently located 1,205 miles west of the Azores.
The storm has maximum sustained winds of 40 mph.
Andrea is moving east-northeast at 17 mph.
It is expected to weaken on Tuesday night and disappear by Wednesday night.
There are no warnings or alerts issued since Andrea is not affecting any land areas.
The storm is projected to keep moving east-northeast through Wednesday.
A Japanese court sentenced US Marine Lance Cpl Jamel Clayton to seven years in prison for sexually assaulting a woman in Okinawa. The incident is one of several recent cases involving US military personnel in Okinawa, causing local anger and protests. The judge found the victim's testimony credible, despite Clayton's denial of the charges.
Key Facts
A US Marine named Lance Cpl Jamel Clayton was sentenced to seven years in prison in Japan.
He was found guilty of sexually assaulting a woman in Okinawa.
The incident is part of multiple cases involving US servicemen in Okinawa.
Okinawa hosts over half of the 54,000 US soldiers stationed in Japan.
Clayton's defense claimed inconsistencies in the victim's story, but the court found her testimony credible.
The local community has protested against US military bases due to similar incidents and issues like noise and pollution.
Efforts to relocate US bases have been discussed, but Japan's alliance with the US is strong due to regional security concerns.
A hospital in Sudan was attacked, resulting in the deaths of more than 40 people, including children and healthcare workers. The attack occurred at Al-Mujlad Hospital in West Kordofan, which was the only operational healthcare facility in the area. The Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) are blamed by different groups for the attack, but the army has not commented.
Key Facts
More than 40 people died in an attack on Al-Mujlad Hospital in Sudan, including six children and five healthcare workers.
The attack happened on Saturday in West Kordofan state, close to conflict areas.
The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and some civil groups blame the Sudanese army for the attack.
The Sudanese army has not commented on these claims.
Sudan's civil war began in April 2023, causing severe humanitarian crises according to the UN.
Al-Mujlad Hospital, the only functioning hospital in the area, provided care mainly for civilians, including dialysis services.
There is significant suffering among children due to war, including malnutrition and a lack of essential services for refugees who fled to Chad.
Reports indicate that both sides have targeted medical facilities, and armed groups have committed rights abuses against children.
US safety regulators have contacted Tesla after videos on social media showed its new driverless cars potentially breaking traffic laws. The cars were tested on public roads in Austin, Texas, with a safety driver present, and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is investigating the incidents.
Key Facts
The NHTSA reached out to Tesla after social media videos showed the company's driverless cars acting erratically.
These driverless taxis are part of Tesla's new launch in Austin, Texas, with testing starting on public roads.
Each vehicle had a safety driver sitting in the passenger seat during the trials.
Social media videos showed instances like a robotaxi stopping suddenly next to a parked police car.
Tesla's current fleet includes 12 robotaxis, which do not operate in bad weather or carry passengers under 18.
Tesla's driverless technology relies on in-car cameras instead of radar and sensors used by other companies.
Competitors like Waymo and Zoox have been offering self-driving services in other US cities.
The NHTSA does not pre-approve new technologies; manufacturers must ensure they meet safety standards.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is holding a hearing about a Boeing 737 Max incident where a panel flew off a plane in January 2024. Investigators found that bolts securing a panel were not replaced during repairs, which led to the panel blowing out. The hearing aims to recommend ways to prevent such incidents in the future.
Key Facts
A panel flew off a Boeing 737 Max during a flight in January 2024.
The panel's bolts were removed for repairs but not replaced.
This incident resulted in minor injuries to seven passengers and one flight attendant.
The plane experienced a rapid decompression at 16,000 feet.
The NTSB is reviewing the incident and suggesting preventive measures.
Boeing employees reported feeling pressured to work quickly.
The panel was made and installed by Spirit AeroSystems.
The Boeing 737 Max has faced past issues, including two major crashes in 2018 and 2019.
Thailand has banned tourists and travelers from entering Cambodia due to ongoing border tensions between the two countries. This move follows a series of events, including armed clashes, that have strained relations and led both nations to impose restrictions on each other.
Key Facts
Thailand has restricted entry into Cambodia for travelers and tourists due to a border dispute.
The ban applies to crossing checkpoints in several Thai provinces and flights to Siem Reap, Cambodia.
The conflict worsened after a May clash that resulted in the death of a Cambodian soldier.
Cambodia responded by banning various imports from Thailand, like fruit, vegetables, and electricity.
Exemptions to the travel ban may be allowed for humanitarian reasons, such as medical needs or educational purposes.
Thai authorities aim to combat illegal scams in Cambodia with these measures.
Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has promised further action against scams, including internet service suspensions.
The border tensions have also caused a political challenge for the Thai government.
Six new books have been released this week, featuring a mix of true stories and novels. The books cover various themes, including personal journeys, cultural impact, and historical achievements. They offer insights into complex lives and societal issues.
Key Facts
The new books released include both nonfiction and novels.
"@UGMan" by Mark Sarvas explores themes of social media and personal reflections through its protagonist.
"I'll Be Right Here" by Amy Bloom follows a story about love and relationships over decades in New York City.
"Make It Ours" by Robin Givhan details the life and impact of fashion designer Virgil Abloh, a key figure in the fashion world.
Honorée Fanonne Jeffers's new work, "Misbehaving at the Crossroads," continues to highlight the narratives of strong Black women.
The books present historical firsts and complex life stories rather than typical light summer reads.
Google might need to change how it runs its search services in the UK. The UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is looking into Google to see if it has too much control over online searches. Google says it will work with the CMA, but also notes the challenges this brings to its UK work.
Key Facts
The CMA is investigating Google under a new UK law about market power.
Google makes up over 90% of online searches in the UK.
Around 200,000 businesses use Google’s advertising to reach customers.
The CMA hasn’t accused Google of unfair competition yet but suggested possible changes.
Suggested changes include making it easier for users to pick other search providers.
Other possible changes include more openness for publishers in search results.
A US judge found Google ran an illegal monopoly for search.
Google has been fined by the European Union for favoring its shopping service.
Private health insurance companies have promised to improve the process needed before insurance pays for certain medical tests or treatments. The new plan aims to make this process simpler and faster for both doctors and patients by the end of the year.
Key Facts
Health insurers often require "prior authorization" before they agree to pay for certain medical services.
This process can involve a lot of paperwork and delays, causing frustration among patients and doctors.
A group of private health insurance companies plans to make this process easier and more efficient.
They aim to simplify electronic submissions and reduce the number of services needing prior approval.
Insurers will keep previous authorizations valid when patients switch plans during ongoing treatment.
The plan also promises faster response times and more transparent communication about approvals.
Federal officials warn they may enforce new rules if insurers do not follow through on these promises.
Prosecutors in New York have finished presenting their case against rapper Sean "Diddy" Combs in a trial involving charges of sex trafficking and racketeering. Combs is accused of using his influence to harm women and cover up these alleged crimes, while admitting to domestic violence. His defense team has not yet presented their side of the story, but they plan to do so shortly.
Key Facts
Sean "Diddy" Combs is on trial in New York for sex trafficking and racketeering.
The charges are based on claims he used his power in business to exploit women.
Combs has admitted to domestic violence but denies the current charges.
Prosecutors presented over 30 witnesses, including ex-girlfriend Cassie and rapper Kid Cudi.
Cassie testified about alleged abuse during her relationship with Combs.
Video evidence reportedly shows Combs assaulting Cassie in a hotel.
Prosecutors lost one alleged victim's testimony as they could not reach her.
A charge of racketeering involves accusations that Combs used a group to commit crimes.
The head of Supercell, Ilkka Paananen, says the mobile gaming industry should take more risks to create new game experiences. Despite their past successes, Supercell is investing in new games and expanding their team to innovate in mobile gaming. The cost of creating games has increased, making companies cautious about launching new titles.
Key Facts
Ilkka Paananen is the chief executive of Supercell, a major mobile gaming company.
Supercell generated over a billion dollars last year with games like Clash of Clans and Brawl Stars.
Paananen increased investment in new games and hired more staff to innovate for the future.
60% of mobile gaming time last year was spent on games over six years old.
The cost to develop mobile games has increased over time.
Supercell’s new game Squad Busters had a strong start but lost momentum.
Supercell launched another game, Mo.co, which is currently available by invite only.
The mobile gaming industry faces high competition and cost risks, with failures being costly and visible.
A helicopter crashed near a waterfront restaurant in Clay Township, Michigan. The helicopter flipped over while attempting to land, but no one was hurt. The police are investigating the crash to determine the cause.
Key Facts
A helicopter crashed in Clay Township, Michigan.
The incident happened near a waterfront restaurant.
Tesla launched its robotaxi service for the first time in Austin, Texas. The initial rollout included a small number of cars with a human safety operator in the passenger seat. Tesla aims to compete with other self-driving taxi services.
Key Facts
Tesla's robotaxi service started on Sunday in Austin, Texas.
Videos showed analysts, influencers, and shareholders trying the service.
Each car had a human safety operator in the passenger seat for safety.
Elon Musk praised Tesla's AI and chip design teams for their work.
Current robotaxis are existing Tesla cars, not the new "Cybercab" model.
Tesla's service faces competition from companies like Waymo and Zoox.
The service relies on Tesla's Full Self-Driving (FSD) technology, which has faced safety reviews.
The robotaxi market is expected to grow significantly by 2035.
The BBC has warned a U.S.-based AI company, Perplexity, about using its content without permission. The BBC claims that Perplexity's chatbot is copying BBC material exactly as it appears on their site, which they argue is against copyright rules.
Key Facts
The BBC accuses Perplexity's chatbot of using its content without permission.
The BBC wants Perplexity to stop using its content, erase any existing use, and compensate for past use.
This is the first time the BBC has taken legal steps against an AI company for this issue.
Perplexity responded without addressing the BBC’s main points, mentioning Google's monopoly.
The BBC claims this usage breaches UK copyright laws and their own terms of service.
The BBC has identified that AI chatbots, including Perplexity's, inaccurately summarize its news stories.
The Professional Publishers Association is concerned about AI platforms disregarding UK copyright laws.
The BBC uses a file called "robots.txt" to block bots but claims Perplexity has not respected it.
Big companies are using machine-learning weather models, which are different from traditional models that rely on physics. While some of these machine-learning models have been more accurate recently, others have not performed as well. The potential for these models to improve quickly means we could see big changes in forecasting accuracy soon.
Key Facts
Machine-learning weather models are being developed by large companies.
Traditional weather forecasts rely on physics-based models that use supercomputers.
These traditional models take hours to run and use a lot of computer power.
Machine-learning models use past weather data to make predictions quickly, often in under a minute.
In recent tests, some machine-learning models were more accurate than traditional models for certain forecasts.
The accuracy of these models can vary, and improvements are happening fast.
Weather forecasts are important for safety and planning, as shown by significant damage and deaths from severe weather events.
