California's governor Gavin Newsom signed a $321-billion budget addressing a $12-billion deficit by rolling back progressive initiatives, including healthcare expansion for undocumented immigrants. The budget relies on reserves and internal borrowing, avoiding new taxes, while protecting safety net programs. Republicans criticize the budget for lacking long-term fiscal solutions and affordability measures.
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Czech mountaineer Klara Kolouchova, the first Czech woman to conquer Everest and K2, tragically died on Nanga Parbat in Pakistan. She fell between Camp I and Camp II on Thursday, prompting immediate rescue efforts. Kolouchova, accompanied by her husband and team, aimed to summit the 'Killer Mountain,' known for its high fatality rate among climbers.
Li Qiang will represent China at the upcoming Brics summit in Brazil. This marks a change as President Xi Jinping will not attend. The summit occurs amidst cautious thawing of China-India relations. Prime Minister Modi will also be present. Xi's absence sparks speculation about China's engagement with Brics. Observers are looking towards the SCO summit in 2025 as a possible venue for a Modi-Xi meeting.
A fireworks warehouse near Esparto, California, exploded on Tuesday evening, causing mandatory evacuations and sending debris soaring thousands of feet. The blast, which shook the surrounding area, ignited spot fires across 80 acres. Firefighters contained the blaze, dubbed the "Oakdale Fire," and are investigating the cause, with no injuries reported immediately.
Tehran recently held a mass funeral for high-ranking military officials, including Revolutionary Guard chief Gen. Hossein Salami and Gen. Amir Ali Hajizadeh, who were killed during the recent conflict with Israel. Simultaneously, hundreds of mothers gathered for the annual Hosseini Infants Ceremony, expressing religious devotion and political sentiments, including chants against the US and Israel.
Russia launched a massive drone and missile attack on Kyiv, injuring 23 people and causing widespread damage. Ukrainian forces intercepted many targets, but several locations were struck. The assault, one of the largest since the war began, occurred after reports of a pause in US weapons shipments to Ukraine, impacting key defensive systems.
Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez's opulent Venice wedding sparked protests as hundreds marched against the billionaire's presence. Locals voiced concerns over overtourism, rising costs, and climate change, criticizing the event's extravagance. Despite Bezos donating to Venetian environmental groups, activists deemed it insufficient.
Recent Israeli airstrikes in Gaza have resulted in the tragic loss of 38 Palestinian lives, according to hospital officials. The attacks, which targeted areas including Gaza City and Muwasi, come amidst renewed indirect negotiations between Israel and Hamas, mediated by Qatar. These talks aim for a ceasefire and hostage release, with the US proposing a 60-day truce.
Russia launched a massive drone attack on Kyiv, resulting in casualties and widespread damage, shortly after a call between Trump and Putin. Zelensky and Trump discussed bolstering Ukraine's defenses, including joint production and procurement, amid concerns over paused US missile deliveries. The strikes, which damaged numerous buildings and infrastructure, prompted international concern and discussions about alternative defense support.
Ukraine's struggle highlights the guns versus butter dilemma, diverting crucial funds from development to defense against Russia. This trade-off echoes historical tragedies like the Bengal famine, where wartime priorities overshadowed human needs.