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Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio met in Kuala Lumpur during the ASEAN foreign ministers' meeting. They discussed key issues, focusing on the war in Ukraine, and explored a new approach to peace efforts. Both countries showed openness to further dialogue despite ongoing tensions.
Key Facts
Sergey Lavrov and Marco Rubio met at the ASEAN meeting in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Their talks focused on the war in Ukraine, with a possible new approach to peace.
Lavrov shared Russia's stance based on President Putin's earlier conversation with former President Trump.
The meeting occurred amid strained relations between Russia and the United States.
Officials from both sides acknowledged the importance of continuing dialogue.
Rubio is also meeting other global leaders, including China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi, at the summit.
The meetings take place as U.S.-China trade relations face challenges, with new tariffs looming.
The U.S. intends to focus more on the Asia-Pacific region through these diplomatic interactions.
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Researchers found that the decline in vulture populations in India, due to a painkiller harmful to them, had severe health impacts. The absence of vultures increased diseases and deaths by allowing other scavengers and bacteria to thrive. Overall, many scavenger species, like vultures, are at risk.
Key Facts
The vulture population in India dropped from around 50 million to just thousands starting in the mid-1990s.
Diclofenac, a painkiller for livestock, is toxic to vultures and was responsible for their decline.
The reduction in vultures led to about 100,000 human deaths annually in the early 2000s due to the absence of these scavengers.
Vultures quickly clean up animal carcasses, preventing the spread of dangerous bacteria.
Their decline contributed to an increase in feral dogs, leading to more rabies cases.
Around one-third of all scavenger species are declining or are threatened with extinction.
Declines in scavenger populations can lead to more diseases that affect humans.
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Nine bus passengers were kidnapped and killed by gunmen in Balochistan, Pakistan. The victims were found with bullet wounds, and officials suggested they were targeted for their Punjabi ethnicity. The Balochistan Liberation Army, known for past attacks, has not claimed responsibility.
Key Facts
Nine passengers were kidnapped from buses in Balochistan, Pakistan.
The attack happened on Thursday evening.
Officials found the bodies in the mountains, showing bullet wounds.
The passengers were traveling from Balochistan to Punjab.
Officials believe the victims were targeted due to their Punjabi background.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the killings as terrorism.
The Balochistan Liberation Army has previously carried out similar attacks.
This region is rich in minerals and has ongoing conflicts involving ethnic Baloch fighters.
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Justin Bieber released a surprise new album called "Swag." The album has 20 songs and features collaborations with several rappers. This is his first album in four years.
Key Facts
Justin Bieber's new album is titled "Swag."
The album has 20 tracks including "Dadz Love," "Devotion," and "Therapy Session."
It has been four years since his last album, "Purpose."
Bieber collaborates with artists like Sexxy Red, Cash Cobain, and Gunna on the new album.
The album's release follows online concern for Bieber's mental health due to paparazzi encounters.
A video of Bieber confronting a photographer on Father's Day was shared widely online.
Some songs in the album reflect religious themes, in line with Bieber's Christian faith.
The title "Swag" appears to reference lyrics from his 2012 song "Boyfriend."
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Ovidio Guzman Lopez, son of Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman, plans to plead guilty in a U.S. court for drug trafficking charges. This plea deal with federal prosecutors includes crimes linked to leading a faction of the Sinaloa cartel and trafficking fentanyl, a dangerous synthetic drug, into the U.S.
Key Facts
Ovidio Guzman Lopez is the son of Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman, a well-known Mexican drug lord.
He is facing drug trafficking charges in the U.S. and plans to plead guilty as part of a deal.
This plea marks the first time one of El Chapo's sons has made such a legal agreement.
Ovidio and his brother, known as Los Chapitos, are accused of running a large fentanyl drug trafficking operation.
Fentanyl is a strong synthetic opioid linked to a major drug crisis in the U.S., causing many deaths and addictions.
After El Chapo's arrest, Ovidio and his siblings reportedly took leadership roles in the cartel.
Mexican authorities arrested Ovidio Guzman Lopez in early 2023 and later extradited him to the U.S.
Rival groups within the cartel have fought for control of drug trafficking routes following these arrests.
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The Kurdish PKK plans to begin disarming after 40 years of conflict with Turkey. The process will start with a ceremony in Iraqi Kurdistan and is set to continue over the summer. This marks a significant move towards peace and aims to resolve issues through democratic means.
Key Facts
The PKK (Kurdistan Workers' Party) has been involved in a conflict with Turkey for 40 years.
The group is listed as a terrorist organization by Turkey, the US, EU, and UK.
A ceremony marking the start of disarmament will take place in Iraqi Kurdistan.
Disarmament will occur with the cooperation of Turkish, Iraqi, and Kurdistan regional governments.
PKK leader Abdullah Ocalan, imprisoned since 1999, supports the move towards democratic politics.
A fragile ceasefire with the PKK broke down in 2015, but this disarmament represents a hopeful step towards lasting peace.
The disarmament initiative follows pressure from Turkey's nationalist leaders and dialogue with Ocalan.
The PKK began its struggle for Kurdish autonomy in Turkey and is seen as seeking a democratic resolution now.
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President Trump will visit Texas on Friday to look at the damage caused by floods. He has also criticized Russia's leader, Vladimir Putin. Additionally, DOGE now has access to a database that manages government payments to farmers and ranchers.
Key Facts
President Trump will travel to Texas on Friday to see the areas affected by flooding.
Trump has recently made strong critical remarks about Russian President Vladimir Putin.
DOGE, which is unclear if it refers to a company or subject, has gained access to a government database.
This database is responsible for handling payment distribution to farmers and ranchers.
The information was shared during a news brief from July 11, 2025.
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Many people in Israel want the war in Gaza to stop. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu met with U.S. President Trump, but they did not reach a deal to end the fighting.
Key Facts
The conflict in Gaza has been going on for 21 months.
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu visited the U.S. and met with President Trump.
The meeting did not result in an agreement for a ceasefire in Gaza.
Many Israelis are increasingly hoping for the war to end.
The news report mentions that audio will be available later for more details.
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President Trump has shown strong support for digital currencies. The Planet Money team investigated how his enthusiasm affects the cryptocurrency industry.
Key Facts
President Trump supports digital currencies.
The investigation is by the Planet Money team.
The focus is on how Trump's support affects the cryptocurrency industry.
Digital currencies, also known as cryptocurrencies, are forms of money that exist only in digital form.
The research findings will be discussed in an upcoming audio broadcast.
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A senior prosecutor from the International Criminal Court (ICC) informed the United Nations Security Council that there are signs indicating war crimes and crimes against humanity in Sudan’s Darfur region. The situation in Darfur involves severe suffering, with many people killed, displaced, and deprived of essentials like food and water.
Key Facts
The ICC Deputy Prosecutor believes war crimes and crimes against humanity are occurring in Darfur.
Over 40,000 people have died, and 13 million have been displaced in the conflict since 2023.
Hospitals and humanitarian aid have been targeted, making it hard to help those in need.
Rape and sexual violence are reportedly being used as weapons.
Abductions for ransom have become common in Darfur.
The Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have intensified weapon use in civilian areas.
The ICC started a new investigation in 2023 after renewed conflict between the SAF and RSF.
The ICC expects a decision soon on earlier crimes in Darfur related to the trial of Ali Kosheib.
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The International Criminal Court (ICC) reports possible war crimes and crimes against humanity in Sudan's Darfur region, involving sexual violence and severe civilian suffering. Since April 2023, conflict between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has led to devastating civilian impact, with millions displaced and worsening humanitarian conditions.
Key Facts
The ICC believes war crimes are occurring in Darfur, with sexual violence against specific ethnic groups highlighted.
Fighting began in April 2023 between Sudan's army and the RSF.
The conflict has caused extensive civilian casualties and suffering.
12 million people have been displaced by the violence in western Sudan.
The UN has reported worsening conditions, including attacks on hospitals and aid convoys.
An outbreak of cholera and famine threatens the region, with over 40,000 children treated for severe malnutrition in early 2025.
More than 150,000 people have died in the conflict over the past two years.
The RSF denies allegations of genocide and claims it is not involved in a "tribal conflict."
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"Made in Palestine" is a short documentary about the Hirbawi textile factory, which is the last place making the traditional Palestinian keffiyeh in Hebron, West Bank. The factory has been run by the same family since 1961 and holds cultural significance to Palestinians.
Key Facts
"Made in Palestine" is a short documentary film.
The film is set in the Hirbawi textile factory in Hebron, West Bank.
The factory is the last one making the traditional Palestinian keffiyeh.
The factory has been in the family since 1961.
It is run by three brothers, sons of Hajj Yasser Hirbawi, the founder.
The keffiyeh is a traditional Palestinian scarf.
The film is directed by Mariam Dwedar.
The factory is important to Palestinian culture and identity.
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On Thursday, a fire broke out on a luxury yacht named Sea Lady II in St Tropez, France. Firefighters had difficulty getting aboard to manage the flames, and nearby yachts were moved for safety. The cause of the fire is under investigation, and there is a possibility the yacht may sink.
Key Facts
A luxury yacht named Sea Lady II caught fire in St Tropez on Thursday.
The yacht is 41 meters long and accommodates up to 10 guests.
Chartering the yacht costs around €65,000 or £56,000 per week.
Firefighters initially faced challenges in accessing the yacht to control the fire.
Emergency services evacuated nearby yachts and deployed anti-pollution barriers.
There is concern that the yacht might sink in the port.
Authorities are investigating the cause of the fire.
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President Donald Trump announced a new 35 percent tariff on imports from Canada, starting next month, as part of wider trade measures. He plans to impose additional tariffs of 15 or 20 percent on other countries and has sent numerous letters about these intentions.
Key Facts
Trump plans to place a 35 percent tariff on Canadian imports, effective August 1.
If Canada responds with tariffs, the U.S. tariff rate will increase.
Trump has sent over 20 letters to various world leaders discussing tariff plans.
Trump said blanket tariffs of 15 or 20 percent could apply to other countries.
Talks are ongoing between the U.S. and Canada to resolve trade issues by July 21.
The United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), replacing NAFTA, is under review.
Trump imposed a 50 percent tariff on copper and set new tariffs on Japan and South Korea.
Myanmar is negotiating a reduction in its 40 percent tariff rate with the U.S.
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President Trump announced a 35% tariff on Canadian goods starting August 1. This move is part of a broader tariff strategy against various countries and is linked to ongoing trade negotiations between Canada and the US.
Key Facts
President Trump plans to impose a 35% tariff on Canadian goods starting August 1.
A tariff is a tax or duty to be paid on a particular class of imports or exports.
Trump has already applied a 25% tariff on some Canadian goods.
Canada exports about 75% of its goods to the US, making these tariffs impactful.
Trump connected the tariffs to Canada's trade barriers and issues related to fentanyl entering the US.
There is uncertainty if these tariffs affect goods under the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA).
Trump issued similar tariff warnings to over 20 trade partners, including Japan and South Korea.
Canada has imposed its own counter-tariffs on the US in response.
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Argentina’s former President, Alberto Fernandez, has been charged with corruption relating to government insurance policies during his presidency from 2019 to 2023. A court has frozen $10 million of his assets, and 33 others are also involved in the case.
Key Facts
Former Argentinian President Alberto Fernandez will face trial for corruption charges related to insurance policies.
He is accused of misusing his position by forcing government offices to buy insurance only from a specific company.
A friend of Fernandez led the company benefiting from these contracts.
The main broker involved was reportedly the husband of Fernandez’s personal secretary.
A court has frozen $10 million of Fernandez’s assets during the trial.
The case includes 33 other individuals.
Corruption claims arose after the investigation of a phone during a separate domestic abuse inquiry involving Fernandez.
Fernandez did not run for re-election, and another person became president in December 2023.
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Countries agreed to set up a headquarters in Paris for a rapid response team once fighting stops in Ukraine. The U.S. joined the discussion for the first time during the Ukraine Recovery Conference in Rome. They plan to help Ukraine by providing experts to rebuild and protect its military forces.
Key Facts
European countries and the U.S. met to plan a response team for Ukraine after hostilities with Russia end.
The headquarters for this team, called the Multinational Force Ukraine, will initially be in Paris.
U.S. officials, including a special envoy and two senators, attended the meeting.
The team will provide logistical and training support to Ukraine's armed forces.
U.S. participation was highlighted as a sign of strong Western support for Ukraine.
There is no current plan for U.S. troops to be stationed in Ukraine.
The meeting took place during the Ukraine Recovery Conference in Rome.
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Fighting has increased in Ukraine with Russia stepping up drone and missile attacks, resulting in the highest civilian casualties since April 2022. The UN reported many people were killed or injured, and Ukraine received significant aid pledges at a conference in Rome. US and other countries are providing weapons to Ukraine, and diplomatic efforts are ongoing.
Key Facts
In June, 232 civilians in Ukraine were killed, and 1,343 were injured, the highest numbers since last year.
Russia claims its attacks focused on military targets, but many towns and cities suffered damage.
Ukrainian President Zelenskyy reported over 400 drones and 18 missiles were used in recent Russian attacks.
Air traffic in Moscow was briefly disrupted by Ukrainian drones intercepted by Russian air defenses.
A Rome conference pledged over 10 billion euros in aid for Ukraine's recovery.
The US and other countries are preparing to send more weapons to support Ukraine.
Russian Deputy Foreign Minister expressed challenges in US-Russia relations, but seeks improved ties.
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Two music duos, Clipse and The Swell Season, have each released their first albums in 16 years. Clipse’s new album is called "Let God Sort Em Out," while The Swell Season’s album is named "Forward." NPR's podcast "All Songs Considered" discusses these releases along with other new albums.
Key Facts
Clipse is a rap duo from Virginia Beach made up of two brothers, Malice and Pusha T.
The Swell Season consists of Glen Hansard and Markéta Irglová, known for their film "Once."
Both Clipse and The Swell Season have not released albums in 16 years until now.
The new Clipse album is titled "Let God Sort Em Out."
The new Swell Season album is called "Forward."
NPR’s "All Songs Considered" podcast reviews these albums.
Other featured albums in the podcast include Wet Leg’s "moisturizer" and Allo Darlin's "Bright Nights."
The podcast is available on multiple platforms, including Spotify and Apple Music.
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A conflict over language education in Maharashtra, India, began when the government required Hindi to be taught as a third language in state primary schools, along with English and Marathi. This decision sparked protests and violence, as many saw it as an imposition of Hindi over regional languages. The government has since paused the policy to reconsider it amid ongoing tensions.
Key Facts
Maharashtra government required Hindi to be taught as a third language in state schools, adding to English and Marathi.
The policy aligns with India's National Education Policy, which advises teaching three languages in schools.
The decision faced strong opposition from groups that view it as imposing Hindi in a Marathi-speaking area.
Language is a sensitive issue in India, often linked to regional pride and identity.
Protests over the policy have turned violent, with incidents reported against non-Marathi speakers.
The Maharashtra government paused the decision and set up a committee to review it.
Political tensions have risen, involving accusations between the ruling coalition and opposition.
The controversy arises months before local elections, amplifying political stakes.
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