Zelenskyy rejects Trump land swap proposal for Ukraine

Severe Storms and Heat Wave Impacting the U.S.Strong thunderstorms are set to affect the Midwest, central Plains, and Southeast, with heavy rainfall and flash flooding expected, particularly in northern Missouri, southern Iowa, and southern Wisconsin. Meanwhile, the Southwest continues to experience extreme heat, with record temperatures in Arizona and heat advisories in effect, although a cooling trend is anticipated this weekend. Want More Context? 🔎

On December 16, 2022, Saint Paul police responded to a 911 call about a woman shot in the head. Officers found 32-year-old Alex Pennig dead from a gunshot wound, with her friend Matthew Ecker claiming he brought a gun for protection from her boyfriend after a fight, and that Alex had shot herself after briefly handling the weapon. Want More Context? 🔎

As Gaza faces a severe hunger crisis exacerbated by Israeli military actions and aid restrictions, several countries have resorted to airdropping supplies, including baby formula and food, despite warnings from experts about the method's dangers and inefficiencies. Amid growing international condemnation, fatalities from starvation have surged, with aid groups highlighting the inadequacy of current relief efforts as nearly 1,400 people have died seeking food. Want More Context? 🔎

An Army veteran, Michael Paul Brown, 45, is the prime suspect in a bar shooting in Anaconda, Montana, that left four dead on August 1, 2025. Following a week-long manhunt, he was apprehended near the crime scene; the victims were identified as local residents, and authorities described Brown as armed and dangerous. Want More Context? 🔎

White House Considers Inviting Zelenskyy to AlaskaThe White House is discussing the possibility of inviting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to Alaska for a meeting alongside President Trump and Russian President Putin, although no plans have been finalized. As diplomatic efforts to secure a ceasefire in Ukraine intensify, Zelenskyy has firmly stated that Ukrainians will not concede land to occupiers, while Trump suggests potential territorial swaps for resolution. Want More Context? 🔎

Israel is facing increasing international backlash, particularly from Arab states and European allies, following Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's announcement of a military takeover plan for Gaza, amid escalating incidents affecting Palestinians. This development coincides with reports of deadly airdrops intended for food aid in the enclave, as highlighted by NBC News’ Molly Hunter. Want More Context? 🔎