While trade negotiations between the U.S. and China show promise of reaching a deal, a significant point of contention remains: the U.S. demand for China to cease purchasing oil from Iran and Russia. China has firmly stated it will prioritize its own national interests regarding energy supplies, signaling a refusal to comply with this demand. This stance highlights China’s confidence in its negotiating power, especially when trade intersects with energy and foreign policy, despite U.S. threats of imposing tariffs. The U.S. seeks to reduce funding for the militaries of Russia and Iran through these restrictions, but China’s continued oil purchases from both countries demonstrate its strategic solidarity and economic advantage.
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Australian towns blanketed with rare snow in wild weather experienced a truly extraordinary event this past weekend. Several areas across eastern Australia, particularly in New South Wales, were covered in a significant layer of snow, the heaviest in decades for some regions. This unusual weather phenomenon brought with it a cascade of challenges, including flooding, stranded vehicles, and widespread power outages.
A particularly intense cold air front unleashed a remarkable amount of snow. Certain parts of northern New South Wales received up to 40 centimeters (16 inches) of snow on Saturday. This snowfall was the most substantial since the mid-1980s, according to the Bureau of Meteorology.… Continue reading
President Lee Jae-myung has directed the government to develop strategies to combat the proliferation of fake news on platforms like YouTube, citing the financial incentives driving its spread. He proposed punitive measures, including exemplary damages, to deter those disseminating false information. Additionally, Lee addressed the relationship with Vietnam, requesting a review of potential actions to strengthen ties, including increased acceptance of Vietnamese workers as a humanitarian gesture. Finally, the President also called for reform of the public housing system to curb property price increases and return profits to the public sector.
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As Western sanctions cripple Russia’s aviation sector, Moscow is seeking partnerships with African nations, particularly Ethiopian Airlines. Russian officials have proposed a cooperation package with the Ethiopian Civil Aviation Authority, including wet-leasing aircraft and supplying aviation equipment. This move comes after a 2024 agreement expanded aviation ties, as Russia’s aging fleet faces maintenance challenges. While this partnership could help Russia circumvent sanctions and boost Ethiopia’s aviation ambitions, it may lead to diplomatic scrutiny.
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During his address on Ukraine’s Air Force Day, President Zelenskyy emphasized the country’s goal of fully integrating its Air Force with NATO forces. He noted the receipt of new combat aircraft, including Mirage fighter jets from France and additional F-16s, with more expected. Zelenskyy approved new development stages for combat aircraft and discussed the 20-year military aircraft development strategy, focusing on the integration of foreign equipment and personnel training. Furthermore, Zelenskyy appointed Lieutenant General Anatolii Kryvonozhko as the new commander of Ukraine’s Air Force.
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In a shocking incident, a 2-year-old girl was discovered alive inside a suitcase in a bus luggage compartment in Kaiwaka, New Zealand. The bus driver found the toddler during a stop, after a passenger requested access to the luggage. The child, who appeared physically unharmed but was very hot, was taken to a hospital. A woman was arrested and charged with child neglect and was scheduled to appear in court, although her identity was not released.
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For the first time in its 90-year history, the Culinary Workers Union has unionized all major casinos on the Las Vegas Strip following deals with the Venetian and the Fontainebleau. These contracts mark a significant victory for the union, as it bucks the national trend of declining union membership. The recent agreements provide workers with substantial pay increases, improved benefits, and better working conditions, transforming their daily lives. However, the union still faces resistance from some workers and has historically encountered opposition despite its success.
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O’Rourke warned that the redrawing of Texas congressional maps could lead to a third Trump term, emphasizing the importance of fighting to win. He stated that Texas Democrats can deny Republicans the votes needed to certify the maps. O’Rourke urged Democrats to focus on redistricting and gaining more seats in other states. He expressed concern that without significant Democratic action, the 2026 election could be “stolen,” potentially paving the way for Trump’s return.
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Boeing St. Louis defense workers set to strike from Monday after rejecting the latest offer, and it seems like there’s a lot to unpack here. It’s a pretty big deal when a workforce votes to walk out, and it underscores some serious issues. The whole situation is likely to cause some significant disruption, especially given the nature of their work – building fighter jets.
One of the biggest sticking points, it appears, was the proposed alternative workweek schedule. Boeing wanted to introduce flexibility, allowing employees to choose between four 10-hour shifts from Monday to Friday or three 12-hour shifts from Friday to Monday.… Continue reading
Karoline Leavitt’s 2022 congressional campaign is currently burdened with a debt exceeding $300,000, owed to over 100 creditors. The campaign, which accepted over $300,000 in illegal contributions, failed to repay any of it in the latest reporting period ending June 2025. While the funds were to be returned, the campaign had already spent the money. Notably, Leavitt’s campaign has only refunded five donors this year, including her parents.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood