White House economic advisor Kevin Hassett stated that President Trump believes current trade deal offers are insufficient and is prepared to implement threatened tariffs on Mexico, the EU, and other nations if improved agreements are not reached. Hassett indicated that discussions are still in progress, but the tariffs will be enacted if Trump deems the final deals inadequate.
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A bizarre incident unfolded in California. Kay, a resident, received numerous Amazon packages she never ordered. A Chinese seller, Liusandedian, used her address for returns. This went on for over a year. Kay's driveway became a storage unit. Amazon's policy requires sellers to manage returns. Liusandedian seemingly bypassed this, causing trouble for Kay and customers.
Daniel Martindale, a US citizen, has been granted Russian citizenship after providing intelligence on Ukrainian troops to Russia's military. He spent two years in Ukraine, relaying coordinates of military sites to Russian intelligence. Martindale, who expressed his gratitude and loyalty to Russia, was extracted in a complex operation due to safety concerns and later applied for citizenship.
China's expanded visa-free policy, now encompassing 74 countries, has spurred a significant surge in foreign arrivals, more than doubling to over 20 million in 2024. This initiative, aimed at boosting tourism and the economy, has led to increased bookings for air travel and hotels, with tour companies experiencing substantial growth.
Qatar Airways is expanding its presence in Syria with the launch of flights to Aleppo starting August 10, 2025. This follows the airline’s return to Damascus earlier in the year. The new route will operate three times a week, increasing to four in September, signaling Qatar’s gradual re-entry into Syria’s airspace and regional travel market.
Donald Trump has accepted an invitation for a second state visit to the UK, hosted by King Charles III and Queen Camilla at Windsor Castle in September. This unprecedented event, marking the first time a US president receives a second state visit, aims to strengthen diplomatic ties. Prime Minister Keir Starmer extended the invitation, seeking to maintain a positive relationship with the US.
US House Speaker Mike Johnson has urged the Justice Department to release all Jeffrey Epstein documents, a move that contrasts with ally Donald Trump's stance. This call follows criticism of Trump's administration for its handling of the case. House Republicans rejected a Democratic proposal to mandate the release of Epstein-related files.
A WestJet flight faced a small engine fire at Vancouver International Airport. The incident occurred after its arrival from Tampa. Emergency slides were deployed, and passengers evacuated safely. No injuries reported during the evacuation. The aircraft is now out of service for maintenance checks. The Transportation Safety Board of Canada is investigating the matter.
Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke is demanding that social media giants like Meta, X, and TikTok take immediate action to block violent content. This urgent appeal follows a shooting at a local business where the perpetrator recorded and uploaded the footage, claiming responsibility. Locke emphasizes the need for these platforms to ban criminal accounts, remove content glorifying violence, and implement real-time detection tools to protect the community.
Etihad Airways has announced the launch of seven new international routes set to begin in November 2025. The expansion includes key destinations such as Medina in Saudi Arabia and Baku in Azerbaijan. This strategic move aims to enhance connectivity from the UAE, strengthen Etihad’s global presence, and meet growing demand in emerging travel markets.
In Coney Island, a 36-year-old man, Jonathan Robalino, was arrested for allegedly attempting to kidnap a 6-year-old boy. The suspect, described by police as "emotionally disturbed," was apprehended after the child's parents chased him down and restrained him. The boy was unharmed and the suspect has been charged with assault and attempted kidnapping.