Trump's Vein Condition Sparks Health Fears
White House reveals President Trump has chronic venous insufficiency causing leg swelling, plus hand bruising from handshakes and aspirin use. Doctor assures no serious issues, but photos of swollen ankles and makeup-covered hands fuel online rumors. Experts note it's common in over-70s, treatable with stockings and elevation, but it raises questions about the 79-year-old's fitness amid his aggressive agenda.
Epstein Files Ignite MAGA Infighting
A Reuters/Ipsos poll shows 69% of Americans believe Trump's administration hides Epstein client details, with only 17% approving his handling—weak even among Republicans. Trump blasts critics as "weaklings" helping Democrats, while Speaker Mike Johnson demands transparency. Options like unsealing docs or a special prosecutor are weighed, exposing GOP fractures and fueling QAnon-style conspiracies.
Meta Settles $8B Privacy Trial
Mark Zuckerberg and Meta directors settle a shareholder suit claiming Facebook ran as an "illegal enterprise" violating a 2012 FTC privacy deal, dodging a trial with potential $8B damages. The FTC's record $5B fine stemmed from Cambridge Analytica scandals. Settlement details undisclosed, but it averts testimony from Zuckerberg, Sandberg, and board heavyweights like Thiel and Hastings.
Squid Game Finale Boosts Netflix
The final "Squid Game" season nets 122M views, helping Netflix beat Q2 earnings with $3.1B profit and $11.08B revenue. Company raises 2025 guidance to $44.8B-$45.2B, fueled by ads and live events like WWE. CFO notes selective acquisitions ahead, with "Wednesday" and "Stranger Things" finales looming—proving global hits drive streaming dominance.
Putin Defies Trump Tariffs Amid Ukraine Arms Push
Trump pledges Patriot missiles and billions in weapons to Ukraine while threatening 100% tariffs on Russian oil buyers unless peace in 50 days. Putin vows to continue, betting Russia's economy outlasts sanctions, demanding NATO non-expansion. Markets rally on grace period, but diplomats warn of global energy rupture.
Al Qaeda Surge Revives West Africa Caliphate Fears
JNIM's deadly attacks kill over 850 in May-June across Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger—deadliest surge yet. Analysts see shift to territorial control, encircling capitals. Boulkessi assault claims 100+ troops; JNIM videos show executions. Violence spreads to coastal states, fueling migration and instability post-Western troop exits.
Netanyahu Coalition Cracks Over Draft Exemptions
Ultra-Orthodox Degel HaTorah quits Netanyahu's government over stalled military draft exemptions for religious students. Amid Gaza fatigue and 100s of soldier deaths, it sparks inequality debates and coalition brinkmanship—potentially fracturing Israel's wartime leadership.
Other Explosive Headlines
Coke Cane Sugar Shift Chaos: Trump's push for cane over corn syrup could cost $5.1B in farm revenue, disrupt supplies, and spike prices—Pepsi open to changes if consumers demand.
Trump Fires Watchdogs: Over 20 inspectors general ousted, chilling oversight; staff fear pursuing probes, with $50B in waste exposed last year now at risk.
France Ends Senegal Troops: Handover of last base ends 200-year presence; Senegal seeks sovereignty while maintaining training ties.
El Salvador Rights Group Flees: Cristosal evacuates amid Bukele's crackdown; 85K arrested in emergency, new law taxes foreign funds, forcing journalists and activists out.
Brazil's Lula Defies Trump: "No gringo" orders for Brazil; rejects 50% tariffs, vows tech firm taxes despite Bolsonaro son's sanction push on judge.
Taiwan Simulates Chinese Raid: Sirens, evacuations in Taipei drill; 58 Chinese jets detected, testing responses to invasion threats.
China Heatwave Power Record: Demand hits 1.5B kW amid 50C feels-like temps; solar and hydro hold, but rationing risks loom.
Connie Francis Dies at 87: Iconic singer of "Stupid Cupid" and "Who's Sorry Now" passes after hospitalization.
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