Russia pummels eastern Ukraine as Zelenskyy travels to Washington

Security guaranteesLavrov emphasized Russia's demand for participation in international talks on Ukraine's security and stated that guarantees must reach a consensus. He indicated that Putin would only meet with Zelenskyy when the latter's legitimacy was clear, given ongoing questions about his authority due to postponed elections. Want More Context? 🔎

Officials dismantled an illegal marijuana cultivation site in Sequoia National Park, removing 2,377 plants and nearly 2,000 pounds of toxic debris from 13 acres, highlighting a long-standing drug-trafficking issue in the area. The operation, discovered in 2024, involved dangerous chemicals and significant environmental damage, with ongoing investigations and no arrests made yet. Want More Context? 🔎

Vice President JD Vance stated in an exclusive interview that sanctions remain a possibility as President Trump seeks to facilitate peace talks between Russian President Putin and Ukrainian President Zelenskyy. Meanwhile, Russian FM Lavrov denied any planned meetings between the two leaders despite assertions from the White House. Want More Context? 🔎

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is intensifying its efforts to carry out mass deportations, with plans to hire 10,000 additional deportation officers and a budget of $76.5 billion, nearly ten times its current annual budget. The agency is also adapting to increasing violence during arrests by equipping agents with protective gear, enhancing specialized units for high-risk operations, and streamlining training processes. Want More Context? 🔎

Over 20 hospitals and health systems have halted transgender care for minors this year due to federal funding threats and investigations, with 12 discontinuing puberty blockers and hormone therapy. As 27 states enact measures against trans care for minors, many families are relocating to states where such care remains accessible, facing devastating impacts from these restrictions. Want More Context? 🔎

In June 2020, during a 911 call for her mother Sheila, 13-year-old Maria Shepperd provided the correct address, but medics were dispatched to a nearby incorrect location, leading to a 20-minute delay in response. This incident highlights significant issues within DC's 911 system, reflecting broader nationwide problems of understaffing, outdated technology, and lack of federal training mandates for dispatchers. Want More Context? 🔎