Panama pledges to end key canal deal with China, work with US after Rubio visit

President Trump initiated higher import tariffs on over 60 countries, with rates of 10% or more beginning Thursday, as the U.S. economy showed signs of strain from previous tariff threats, including stalled hiring and inflation. While Trump touted the tariffs as a means to boost manufacturing and reduce the trade deficit, economists warn of potential long-term economic erosion and uncertainty surrounding their impact. Want More Context? 🔎

Two Chinese nationals, Chuan Geng and Shiwei Yang, were arrested in California for illegally exporting Nvidia AI chips worth millions to China without the necessary licenses. Their company, ALX Solutions, allegedly shipped over 200 chips, misrepresenting customers in Singapore and Japan, and received substantial payments from Chinese firms, raising concerns about compliance with U.S. export regulations. Want More Context? 🔎

The Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 is the most stolen vehicle in the U.S., with a theft rate 39 times higher than average for model years 2022-2024, according to the Highway Loss Data Institute. High horsepower and vulnerabilities in its onboard systems make it attractive to thieves, prompting General Motors to issue a security software update for recent models. Want More Context? 🔎

WASHINGTON — The Trump administration is revising the State Department’s annual Human Rights Report, shifting focus to freedom of expression issues among allies and adversaries, as the release has been delayed following cuts to the Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Labor. The upcoming report will emphasize the right to life and highlight global censorship, while downplaying other human rights concerns. Want More Context? 🔎

France's largest wildfire in years has devastated the Aude region, burning over 39,500 acres and resulting in one death and numerous injuries, including 11 firefighters. With 2,100 firefighters battling the blaze amid hot, dry, and windy conditions, local authorities have evacuated villages, while military support is set to bolster firefighting efforts as investigations into the fire's cause continue. Want More Context? 🔎

UNITED NATIONSU.N. investigator Richard Bennett reported that the Taliban have "weaponized" Afghanistan's legal system to oppress women and girls, constituting "crimes against humanity" by dismantling legal protections and replacing judges with those aligned with their extreme views. Women face severe restrictions, lack legal representation, and must navigate a hostile court system, forcing many to seek justice through male-dominated informal avenues, while international efforts are urged to hold the Taliban accountable. Want More Context? 🔎