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Two powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela on Wednesday evening, with a 7.2 or 7.1 magnitude foreshock followed approximately 40 seconds later by a 7.5 magnitude quake near the city of Morón. At least 164 people have been killed and approximately 971 injured, with many still trapped under rubble and the death toll expected to rise. Acting President Delcy Rodríguez declared a state of emergency as rescue teams, volunteers, and international aid teams mobilised across affected areas.

Two powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela on Wednesday evening within approximately one minute of each other, with magnitudes reported between 7.1 and 7.5 near the city of Morón, causing buildings to collapse and widespread damage including in the capital Caracas. Acting President Delcy Rodríguez declared a state of emergency as rescue efforts began across affected communities. The U.S. Geological Survey warned that high casualties and extensive damage were probable, and tsunami warnings were issued for Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands.

The White House has formally submitted a request to Congress for $87.6 billion, with the majority of funds designated for Pentagon replenishment following U.S. military action against Iran, including approximately $67 billion for munitions stocks and the cost of deploying forces to the Middle East. The request also includes funding for aid to U.S. farmers and response to an Ebola crisis. The proposal faces significant congressional resistance, coming one day after Congress passed a resolution rebuking or seeking to rein in the administration's military actions in Iran.

The US Senate voted to reject a war powers resolution that would have constrained President Trump's military action against Iran, reversing course after Trump publicly criticized Republican senators who had initially supported the measure. The White House has submitted a budget request to Congress of approximately $87-88 billion, the majority of which is directed toward Pentagon costs including munitions replenishment and force deployment in the Middle East. Separately, the head of the UN's nuclear agency indicated that inspectors would visit Iranian nuclear enrichment sites as part of an interim US-Iran deal, though an Iranian diplomat raised objections to the terms.

The U.S. Supreme Court issued two significant immigration rulings, allowing the Trump administration to end Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for migrants from Haiti and Syria and permitting federal agents to turn back asylum seekers at the U.S.-Mexico border before they enter the country. The asylum ruling was decided 6-3 along ideological lines, with the dissenting liberal justices arguing it circumvents existing U.S. law. The decisions could affect hundreds of thousands of people and open the door to deportations of TPS holders this year.

The United States and Iran appear to be moving toward a negotiated settlement following a period of armed conflict, with diplomatic talks involving Gulf states and broader international partners underway. NATO's role in the conflict has become a point of contention, with Trump criticizing allied participation while NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte cited the use of European bases as evidence of support. Domestically, US gasoline prices have fallen approximately 49 cents per gallon over the past month amid expectations of an end to hostilities, though Trump has publicly complained the decline is insufficient.

Israeli military strikes continued in Gaza and the occupied West Bank, resulting in fatalities according to health officials. Among those reported killed was a 12-year-old child struck in al-Mawasi, Gaza, according to staff at Nasser Medical Complex. The strikes are occurring against a backdrop of ongoing uncertainty surrounding ceasefire negotiations.

A severe heatwave is continuing across Europe, with temperatures reaching record-breaking levels in multiple countries including France, Germany, and the UK. Hundreds of deaths have been attributed to the extreme heat, with at least 101 million Europeans forecast to experience temperatures above 35°C. Authorities in several countries have issued health alerts and some public venues, including the Louvre and Eiffel Tower, have been closing early in response.

President Trump has repeatedly stated that the war with Iran is 'done,' making the declaration publicly at the Great American State Fair event on the National Mall. The conflict has had regional repercussions, with Shiite Muslims around the world marking Ashoura this year under the shadow of months of war in Iran and Lebanon. The aftermath of the war is generating economic, diplomatic, and cultural discussion, including debate over Trump's standing in the Persian Gulf region and the reactions of Iranian Americans.

Ukraine has intensified drone strikes on Russian-held Crimea, which Russia annexed in 2014, using longer-range unmanned aerial systems. The strikes represent a shift in the conflict's dynamics, bringing the effects of war closer to Russian-held territory and civilian populations. Russian President Putin has made references to potential peace talks amid these developments.

Two powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela in quick succession, with the primary quake recorded at magnitude 7.1 by the U.S. Geological Survey, centered west of Morón near the coast. Buildings collapsed in the capital Caracas, and the earthquakes triggered tsunami warnings for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The USGS assessed that high casualties and extensive damage were probable.

Two powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela in quick succession on Wednesday evening, causing buildings to collapse and widespread damage across the country, including in the capital Caracas. Acting President Delcy Rodríguez declared a state of emergency, with at least 32 people killed and approximately 700 injured according to official figures. The country's main airport was closed in the aftermath, and international nations pledged aid in response to the disaster.

Chinese vessels have recently conducted activities described as 'law enforcement' operations, seabed mapping, and research in Pacific waters located more than 500 miles from China's mainland. These activities represent what observers describe as an expansion of China's maritime presence further from its shores than previously recorded. The term 'salami slicing' has been used to characterize what analysts describe as a gradual, incremental strategy to assert greater control in the region.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup group stage is concluding, with multiple nations securing or competing for places in the Round of 32. Notable results include Brazil defeating Scotland 3-0, the USA defeating Qatar 3-1, Mexico winning all three group matches with a 3-0 victory over Czechia, and South Africa advancing to the knockout round for the first time since 2010. FIFA's disciplinary committee has suspended a Qatar player for the tackle that broke Canada's Ismael Kone's leg during group stage play.

Several senior US military generals are departing their posts amid Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's review of Pentagon leadership. General Christopher Donahue, a senior Army general, is among those affected, with reports indicating his career extension was blocked. A four-star Army general commanding US forces in Europe is also set to retire after not receiving a nomination for a new assignment consistent with his rank.

A key inflation gauge tracked by the Federal Reserve has risen to its highest level in three years, driven in part by rising gas prices. The development comes amid broader economic concerns about affordability for American consumers. Public polling indicates growing unease among Americans regarding both inflation and other policy matters.

President Donald Trump visited Capitol Hill on Wednesday to meet with Republican senators amid growing tensions between the White House and the Senate GOP caucus. Senator Bill Cassidy of Louisiana publicly confronted Trump during a private lunch, challenging him over a lack of information shared with the public. The visit came as some Republican senators have expressed frustration with Trump's influence over their legislative agenda and his involvement in primary races against incumbent members.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup group stage is nearing its conclusion, with multiple nations securing advancement to the Round of 32. Brazil defeated Scotland 3-0, with Vinícius Júnior scoring twice, while the United States Men's National Team advanced following a 3-1 win over Qatar. Several other nations including Bosnia and Herzegovina, Portugal, and Colombia also progressed, while FIFA's disciplinary committee issued a suspension to a Qatar player involved in a serious foul on Canada's Ismael Kone.

A federal judge, U.S. District Court Judge Indira Talwani, has blocked key provisions of President Trump's executive order that sought to create a federal voter list and restrict access to mail-in ballots. The ruling came after a coalition of nearly two dozen states challenged the order. The decision has implications for the 2026 midterm elections, which will determine control of Congress.

The U.S. Supreme Court has ruled in favor of Bayer, the maker of Roundup weedkiller, blocking thousands of lawsuits that alleged the company failed to warn users the product could cause cancer. The decision affects what has been described as one of the largest waves of product liability litigation in U.S. history, with more than 100,000 plaintiffs having filed cases in state and federal courts. The ruling was also seen as a victory for the Trump administration.

A senior Islamic State leader was killed in a US airstrike in northwest Syria, according to US Central Command. The strike took place last week. The announcement was made by US Central Command.

The U.S. Supreme Court has struck down a Hawaii law that required individuals to obtain permission before carrying firearms into places such as stores and hotels. The ruling is the latest in a series of Supreme Court decisions expanding Second Amendment rights. The case involved restrictions on carrying guns in privately owned spaces open to the public.

A federal judge has permanently blocked President Trump's executive order requiring documentary proof of citizenship for voter registration. The ruling found that the president lacks the constitutional authority to oversee federal elections. The decision strikes down key provisions of what was Trump's first executive order on elections.

North Korea has commissioned its largest-ever naval destroyer, a vessel weighing approximately 5,000 tons. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un inspected the warship, according to state media reports. The development marks a significant expansion of North Korea's naval capabilities.

Europe is experiencing a record-breaking heatwave, with the UK recording its hottest June day at 36.1°C in Hampshire. Emergency services in England are reporting strain, with ambulances struggling to reach patients suffering heat-related illnesses and drivers stranded on the M25 motorway. The heat has been attributed to a 'heat dome' weather system affecting multiple European countries, with further high temperatures forecast.

Senate Republicans voted Wednesday night to reject a war powers resolution related to U.S. involvement in Iran, reversing course after President Trump visited Capitol Hill and pressured Republican senators. The vote came one day after a similar war powers measure had passed. During a private lunch on the same day, Republican Senator Bill Cassidy of Louisiana publicly confronted Trump over the administration's handling of information shared with the public regarding the conflict.

A bipartisan housing bill aimed at lowering housing costs and increasing home construction passed Congress with broad support but has stalled after President Trump announced he would not sign it. Trump posted on social media that he was canceling the planned signing ceremony until the Senate passes his SAVE America Act, an election integrity bill. It remains unclear whether Trump intends to permanently block the housing legislation or is using it as leverage.

President Trump cancelled a planned signing of a bipartisan affordable housing bill, announcing on social media that the signing would not proceed until the Senate passes his election integrity legislation, known as the SAVE America Act. The signing had been scheduled to take place on Capitol Hill. It remains unclear whether Trump intends to permanently shelve the housing bill or is using it as leverage.

Democratic socialist-aligned candidates backed by New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani won several primary races in New York, marking a significant night for the progressive wing of the Democratic Party. The results have prompted debate within the Democratic Party about its ideological direction and the growing influence of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA). The DSA is reportedly already mobilizing its national network of chapters to weigh in on the 2028 presidential race following the victories.

Candidates backed by New York City mayoral figure Zohran Mamdani achieved significant victories in recent New York primary elections, with progressive and democratic socialist candidates defeating several incumbent or establishment-aligned opponents. The results have prompted debate within the Democratic Party about its ideological direction and the growing influence of its left wing. Democratic Socialists of America are reportedly weighing their political strategy ahead of the 2028 presidential election in the wake of the results.

Prosecutors have dropped a rape charge against Harvey Weinstein involving actress and stylist Jessica Mann. The dismissal follows a mistrial in May, which would have required a fourth trial on the charge. The decision by prosecutors ends further litigation on this specific count.

A flu outbreak among recruits at basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base in Texas emerged after Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth removed mandatory flu shot requirements. The Air Force had submitted a request to reinstate the mandatory flu vaccination policy weeks before the outbreak began. The outbreak is linked by timing to the policy change, with the Air Force's reinstatement request still pending as the situation developed.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis announced the closure of the temporary immigration detention facility nicknamed 'Alligator Alcatraz,' which was located in the Florida swamps. DeSantis stated that approximately 21,000 people were deported through the center during its operation. The site is now being considered for incorporation into a Florida Everglades restoration project.

The Indian Army is exploring the procurement of approximately 350 light tanks suited for high-altitude and mountainous terrain. The initiative follows the border standoff with China and is focused on augmenting firepower in elevated regions. The tanks under consideration would also be capable of being transported by air, enhancing rapid deployment potential.

Progressive and Democratic Socialist-aligned candidates won multiple congressional primary races in New York City on Tuesday. The victories included three candidates backed by New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani, who defeated their opponents in their respective contests. The results have drawn reactions from both centrist Democrats concerned about the party's direction and from Republican critics, including former President Trump, who criticized the winners as socialists or communists.

Bill Pulte has been appointed as the new acting director overseeing the office that coordinates the United States' 18 intelligence agencies. Staff reductions are underway at the office following urging from President Trump. Current and former intelligence officials have raised concerns about the nature and impact of these cuts.

The FIFA World Cup 2026 group stage is approaching its conclusion, with several teams already securing their places in the knockout rounds. The United States has won its first two matches in Group D, guaranteeing a top finish, while South Africa, Morocco, and Brazil have also advanced. The tournament is being hosted in North America and is generating significant attention both on and off the pitch.

SpaceX has recently gone public, marking a significant shift for the company after two decades as a private entity under Elon Musk's control. Amid the public debut, a broader global tech market downturn has impacted Musk's personal wealth, causing him to lose his trillionaire status. The developments have prompted scrutiny of both Musk's financial standing and SpaceX's strategic direction going forward.

U.S. gasoline prices have fallen an average of 49 cents per gallon over the past month, coinciding with rising expectations for an end to the conflict with Iran. President Donald Trump has publicly alleged that energy companies are engaging in price gouging, suggesting prices should be falling faster. However, experts cited by the Associated Press say that gasoline prices typically take time to decline even after underlying oil costs drop.

The Trump administration has reached a settlement with chemical manufacturer Chemours Co. requiring the company to pay $450 million to resolve a case involving illegal discharges of synthetic 'forever chemicals,' also known as PFAS. These chemicals are used to make products resistant to water, grease, and stains. The settlement involves multiple states and addresses years-long violations related to the discharge of these persistent substances.

U.S. stocks closed mixed on Wednesday, with the S&P 500 falling 0.1% while the Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 0.4%. Losses among major technology companies, including Microsoft, weighed on the broader market. The Nasdaq composite also experienced pressure, though advancing stocks outnumbered declining ones within the S&P 500.

A federal class action lawsuit has been filed in California accusing gas station operators of using AI-powered software to illegally collude and raise fuel prices. The lawsuit targets major companies including Marathon and Circle K, alleging violations of antitrust law. The case raises broader legal questions about the use of algorithmic pricing tools in coordinating prices among competitors.

Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, is being discussed as a potential future Labour leader and Prime Minister, with Chancellor Rachel Reeves publicly backing him for the role. Reports indicate Burnham has been developing plans that have been dubbed 'No 10 of the North,' suggesting an ambition to bring northern English priorities to national leadership. Burnham's potential candidacy is generating significant media coverage alongside questions about his economic and political positioning.

A 6.9-magnitude earthquake struck off the eastern coast of Iwate, on Japan's northern coast. The Japan Meteorological Agency confirmed the preliminary magnitude and assessed that there was no tsunami danger following the quake. The event was reported by the Associated Press based on information from Japanese authorities.

The UK government has announced plans for new legislation to ban conversion practices. The proposed Bill would include penalties of jail time and unlimited fines for those found guilty of conducting such practices. The stated aim of the legislation is to protect LGBT people from what the government describes as abusive acts intended to change their sexual orientation or gender identity.

Australia has announced plans to strengthen its existing social media ban for young people. The move comes amid concerns that the current laws, which were the first of their kind in the world, may not have sufficient enforcement powers. The strengthening of these measures has been flagged as a government priority.

An audio recording obtained by the Washington Post reveals that Health Secretary RFK Jr. urged Iowa Libertarian candidates to drop out of key races. The apparent goal of the effort was to help Republicans maintain control of Congress by consolidating votes behind GOP candidates. The recording highlights concerns within the Republican Party about its ability to hold its House majority.

Maryland held primary elections in which several House seats were decided. In the 6th District, incumbent Rep. April McClain Delaney won the Democratic primary, defeating former Rep. David Trone. In the 5th District, Democratic state delegate Adrian Boafo won a crowded 24-person field to replace retiring Rep. Steny Hoyer.

An inspection of Nottingham University Hospitals (NUH) Trust mortuaries by the Human Tissue Authority found bodies in advanced deterioration. The inspection identified 10 shortfalls at the trust's mortuaries. The findings have added to existing scrutiny of the trust, which was already under fire prior to this inspection.

Camp Mystic, an all-girls camp in Texas, has filed for bankruptcy following a deadly flash flood that occurred in July 2025. The flood resulted in the deaths of 27 people at the camp. The bankruptcy filing comes in the aftermath of the disaster.

Several primary elections were decided in Maryland and South Carolina. In Maryland, Rep. April McClain Delaney won the Democratic primary for the 6th District, defeating former Rep. David Trone, while Adrian Boafo won the Democratic primary for the 5th District to succeed retiring Rep. Steny Hoyer. In South Carolina, Alan Wilson won the Republican gubernatorial runoff, having received a late co-endorsement from President Trump.

Congressional Democrats are calling for investigations into a $16 million rehabilitation project at the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. The renovation has been troubled by problems including algae growth and peeling paint. Lawmakers have demanded information from the contractors overseeing the project.

Australian teal independents Allegra Spender and Zali Steggall have confirmed plans to form a new political party called Community Strong Australia. The party is described by its founders as a 'responsible alternative' to the major parties. As of the reporting, no other crossbench colleagues had confirmed they would join the new party.

Andy Burnham, currently Mayor of Greater Manchester, is reportedly considering a run for UK Prime Minister. His potential leadership bid is attracting significant media attention, with speculation emerging about who would form part of his top team. Burnham has been in a relationship with Marie-France van Heel, a marketing executive, since their university days.

King Charles III is expected to publicly disclose his personal tax bill, marking the first time a British monarch has done so. The announcement is anticipated to take place on Thursday. The move is being framed as an effort to increase transparency regarding the royal finances.

A strong earthquake struck a rural area of Northern California, described as the most powerful to hit the region since 1940. The quake affected Mendocino County, where authorities confirmed some injuries had been reported. No major structural damage was immediately reported following the event.

US President Donald Trump publicly commented on Andy Burnham, the Mayor of Greater Manchester, describing him as 'extremely liberal.' This marks Trump's first known public reaction to Burnham, who is widely expected by many observers to become the next UK Prime Minister. The comments come amid a shifting political landscape in the United Kingdom.

A liner at the bottom of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool was cut with a sharp knife or razor, damaging foam sealant that was part of a $16 million rehabilitation project, according to a National Park Service official. The damage constitutes deliberate vandalism to a federally protected landmark on the National Mall. The National Park Service has confirmed the nature of the damage and is investigating the incident.

Camp Mystic, an all-girls camp in Texas, has filed for bankruptcy following a deadly flood in July 2025. The flooding resulted in the deaths of 27 people at the camp. The bankruptcy filing comes in the aftermath of the disaster.

A 6.9-magnitude earthquake struck off the eastern coast of Iwate in northern Japan, with Japan's Meteorological Agency reporting no tsunami danger. Separately, a significant earthquake hit a rural area of Mendocino County in Northern California, described as the strongest to affect the region since 1940. The California quake produced mild shaking with some injuries reported but no immediate reports of major damage.

The 2026 World Cup has prompted a notable tension between FIFA and its corporate sponsors over branding visibility and rights. Sponsors are competing aggressively for audience attention at football's largest global tournament. FIFA's attempts to manage or restrict certain branding activity appear to have drawn more attention to the underlying disputes rather than resolving them.

A street closure permit has been applied for near Madison Square Garden on 4 July, which has been linked in media reports to speculation about a potential wedding between Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce. Officials confirmed the permit application, though no further details about the event have been officially verified. The reports have generated significant media attention across multiple outlets.

Ryanair has announced it will allow parents to sit with their young children for free, reversing a previous policy. The airline had previously charged adults a fee of £8 each way to sit alongside their young children. The change removes a paid seating requirement that had applied to families travelling with young children.

Permits filed by a wedding company for Madison Square Garden in New York City over July 4th weekend have fueled speculation about a potential wedding between Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce. Both CNN and USA Today report on the existence of these permits as the primary piece of evidence driving the story. No official confirmation from Swift, Kelce, or their representatives has been reported by either outlet.

A crash occurred at a level crossing in Hoghton involving a car being struck by a train. One person was killed in the incident. A child sustained life-threatening injuries and was hospitalised as a result of the crash.

Permits associated with a wedding company have been filed for Madison Square Garden in New York City over the July 4 weekend, fueling speculation about a potential wedding between Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce. Both CNN and USA Today report that these permit filings are being treated as evidence or clues pointing to the venue and timing of a possible ceremony. Neither outlet has confirmed that a wedding is definitively planned.

Amazon Prime Day 2026 is underway, with its second day drawing significant consumer attention. Deals are available across a wide range of categories including home, kitchen, electronics, Apple products, and personal care items. Discounts reported by multiple outlets reach as high as 81% off select products.

Amazon Prime Day 2026 is currently in its second day, with retailers and media outlets covering available deals across multiple product categories. The Wall Street Journal has published multiple articles highlighting discounts in home and kitchen goods, electronics, and Apple products. Coverage is focused on guiding consumers toward specific purchases during the sales event.

New data published in the UK reveals that the financial returns from university degrees vary significantly depending on the subject studied. The data measures lifetime earnings outcomes, indicating that some degrees yield considerably higher financial returns than others. The BBC has reported on this data as a resource for prospective students evaluating their higher education options.

Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch referred to Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson as a 'spiteful class warrior' during Prime Minister's Questions. Phillipson responded to the insult by stating she would have the phrase printed on a T-shirt. The exchange took place at PMQs, the weekly parliamentary session in which the Prime Minister and opposition leaders face questions.

Amazon Prime Day 2026 is currently in its second day, featuring deals across multiple product categories. The Wall Street Journal has highlighted discounts in home and kitchen goods, general merchandise, and Apple and electronics products. A long-time tech reviewer was cited by the outlet to guide readers toward notable technology purchases during the event.