Magnitude 7.3 earthquake causes widespread damage in Pacific island nation of Vanuatu

President Donald Trump is set for a tentative summit with Russian leader Vladimir Putin, potentially granting Moscow a diplomatic victory amid the ongoing Ukraine conflict. Meanwhile, redistricting battles intensify as Texas Republicans push for new congressional maps, prompting Democrats to consider countermeasures in states like Illinois, California, and New York. Want More Context? 🔎

Palestinians in Gaza face severe food shortages amid Israel's blockade and military actions, with plans for a full military occupation announced for October 7, coinciding with the two-year anniversary of the Hamas massacre. As the humanitarian crisis worsens, opposition leaders and hostage families criticize the escalation, fearing it will endanger remaining captives while the UN warns of further displacements and destruction. Want More Context? 🔎

Prime Minister Mark Carney announced a historic pay increase for Canadian Armed Forces personnel, marking the largest raise in over 25 years, with increases of up to 20% as part of a $9 billion investment to enhance military capabilities and meet NATO spending targets. This initiative aims to improve recruitment and retention, aligning military pay with public service wages, while also addressing the need for better defense infrastructure and reliance on international partnerships. Want More...

After months of dispute, Pretoria high court says Edgar Lungu’s family must hand over his body for burial in Zambia, against their wishes.A South African court has ordered that former Zambian President Edgar Lungu's body be repatriated for burial in Zambia, despite his family's desire for him to be interred in South Africa. The ruling, which emphasizes the state's right to honor Lungu with a state funeral in Lusaka, comes after a two-month dispute between...

The University of California is reviewing a $1 billion settlement offer from the Trump administration after the government froze $584 million in federal funding to UCLA due to pro-Palestinian protests. Critics argue this threatens free speech and academic freedom, while the government links the protests to antisemitism, amid rising concerns over bias related to the conflict in the Middle East. Want More Context? 🔎

Some economists warn that President Trump's recent tariffs, which raised the average tariff rate to 18%, may lead the U.S. towards stagflation, characterized by high inflation and low GDP growth. Although current economic growth remains strong, inflation is expected to rise, and potential job market impacts from higher import costs could further complicate the economic landscape. Want More Context? 🔎