During a flagpole unveiling at the White House, President Trump jokingly questioned construction workers about their immigration status, sparking attention amidst his administration's intensified deportation efforts. Trump's remarks followed a reporter's question on his new deportation push, where he stated the removal of criminals and the mentally ill.
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Amidst escalating tensions between Israel and Iran, Russia cautioned the United States against military intervention, following Israeli strikes and Iranian retaliation. Despite a strategic partnership, Moscow hasn't offered military aid to Tehran, with Putin proposing mediation while condemning Israel. Putin and Xi Jinping jointly criticized Israel, advocating for a peaceful resolution.
Despite ongoing diplomatic efforts, the Kremlin anticipates slow progress in improving Russia-US relations due to existing obstacles. High-level meetings and lower-level talks are planned, while Trump seeks closer ties with Moscow, unsettling Europe. Amidst this, the US may reduce military aid to Ukraine, as Trump aims to end the conflict, even as recent Russian strikes in Kharkiv resulted in casualties.
The US Army's 250th-anniversary parade, coinciding with Donald Trump's birthday, faced online ridicule due to videos showing troops marching out of sync, leading to accusations of defiance. A viral photo depicted Trump appearing to doze off during the event. Simultaneously, anti-Trump protests erupted across the US, contrasting with the parade's perceived lack of enthusiasm.
Kuwait is tightening its immigration policies, requiring private sector expats to obtain employer approval before leaving the country starting July 1, 2025. Additionally, stricter family visa rules mandate a minimum salary of KD800 for sponsoring dependents. These changes aim to enhance oversight, prevent illegal departures, and ensure financial stability for expatriate workers and their families.
Severe weather is impacting the United States, with tornado warnings in the Midwest and Great Lakes causing power outages and prompting safety alerts. High wind warnings are in effect for California's Mojave Desert Slopes, while the East anticipates extreme heat. The West faces fire weather concerns and scorching temperatures, with advisories issued across multiple states.
Following Israeli strikes on Iranian targets, UAE airlines have suspended flights to numerous Middle Eastern, Caucasian, and Central Asian destinations. Emirates, Etihad, flydubai, and Air Arabia have halted services to countries including Iran, Iraq, and Israel, causing significant disruptions at Dubai airports. Passengers are advised to check flight status and arrive early as airlines work to manage the evolving situation.
Iranian state television has urged citizens to delete WhatsApp, alleging data collection and sharing with Israel, claims WhatsApp vehemently denies. The messaging app emphasises its use of end-to-end encryption, ensuring user privacy and denying any data sharing with governments.
Despite honoring Juneteenth in his first term, Donald Trump remained silent on this year's holiday, even suggesting the elimination of some federal holidays. This contrasts with his previous acknowledgments, including claiming to have made Juneteenth "very famous. Juneteenth is the newest US federal holiday, enshrined into law in 2021 by Congress and then-President Joe Biden. Trump cannot undo it without an act of Congress.
Nicolas Sarkozy, France's former president, has been stripped of his Legion of Honor medal following his conviction for corruption and influence peddling. This decision aligns with the Legion of Honor's regulations, marking Sarkozy as the second former head of state to lose the distinction after Philippe Petain. Sarkozy faces ongoing legal battles, including allegations of illicit campaign funding from Libya.