US aid cutoff poses new challenges to rights groups in Russia and Belarus

Australia's prime minister warned that the aftermath of a severe tropical storm was ongoing in parts of Queensland and New South Wales, where flooding caused one death and multiple injuries. Despite the storm weakening before landfall, over 200,000 properties were without power, schools were closed, and evacuations were underway as water levels continued to rise. Cleanup efforts began in some areas as welfare payments were announced for affected workers, with authorities urging residents to remain...

A federal judge awarded nearly $2 million in damages to the mother and son of Ulises Valladares, a Texas man killed by an FBI agent during a botched rescue attempt in 2018. The judge determined that the agent, Gavin Lappe, was negligent in shooting Valladares, who was bound and blindfolded, without confirming his target. Despite Lappe being protected by qualified immunity, the judge ruled that he was the sole cause of Valladares' death due to...

Passengers lined up at Rhine-Main Airport in Frankfurt, Germany ahead of a surprise strike at Hamburg Airport affecting over 40,000 passengers on Sunday. The strike, organized by the ver.di union, aimed to pressure company representatives during contract negotiations. Despite disruptions and cancellations, the union's goal is to negotiate improved benefits for its members, causing frustration among travelers impacted by the sudden walkouts. Full Article

Emergency medicine physician Dr Joe Whittington, also known as Dr Joe MD, advises parents to check the "dangerous four" places first if they can't find their child at home: pools, refrigerators, washers, and dryers. Quick action in these often-overlooked locations can prevent tragic accidents. Other parents shared stories of narrow escapes, emphasizing the importance of child safety locks and additional precautions around these areas. Full Article

Japanese shipowner MOL is acquiring LBC Tank Terminals for $1.72bn, expanding its presence in chemical storage in Europe and the US. LBC operates seven terminals with a total capacity of 3m cu m, including facilities for rail and truck transport. With previous acquisitions, MOL now has one of the largest chemical tanker fleets globally. Full Article

In Greece, the charity MOm has helped nurse back to health dozens of Mediterranean monk seals, like Panagis, who was found struggling in Cyprus and is almost ready to return to the wild. Conservation efforts have led to a remarkable recovery of the species, with nearly half of the global population of 800 living in Greek waters. MOm's rehabilitation center has cared for about 40 seals, preparing them for release back into the wild after...