Newsroom Briefing | July 18th, 2025
- Olga Nesterova
- Jul 18
- 19 min read
HIGHLIGHTS
USDA Fires 70 Foreign Researchers Amid National Security Crackdown
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has terminated 70 foreign contract researchers—most of them Chinese postdoctoral scientists—after a national security review aimed at protecting the U.S. food supply from adversarial nations, including China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran. This move follows Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins’ July 8 farm security plan, which also bans farmland purchases and research partnerships with these countries. The firings, which impact the Agricultural Research Service (ARS), come amid a federal hiring freeze, stalling critical research projects. Union leaders warn the abrupt dismissals will set back U.S. agricultural science by years, though the USDA has not addressed concerns over lost research capacity. A new memo now restricts USDA collaboration and publication with nationals from the four named countries.
Trump’s $1 Trillion Pentagon Budget Fuels Climate Crisis, Study Finds
A new analysis by the Climate and Community Institute reveals that Donald Trump’s proposed $1 trillion Pentagon budget for 2026—a 17% increase—will add 26 megatons of carbon emissions, equivalent to those produced annually by Croatia or 68 gas power plants. This surge will raise the U.S. military’s total carbon footprint to 178 Mt CO₂e, making it the 38th largest emitter globally if it were a country. The emissions are expected to cause $47 billion in global economic damage.
The budget increase comes at the expense of social and climate programs, including cuts to education, science, Medicaid, and renewable energy investments. It also coincides with Trump’s withdrawal from the Paris climate accords and his administration's termination of Pentagon climate initiatives. Experts warn this massive military investment will worsen climate impacts like extreme weather, while undercutting national security by defunding disaster preparedness.
The U.S. military is already the world’s largest institutional emitter of greenhouse gases, responsible for about 80% of federal emissions. Despite this, military emissions remain exempt from international climate reporting due to lobbying during the Kyoto negotiations. Critics argue that the Pentagon’s expanding "carbon bootprint" undermines global climate goals and must be addressed in future climate policy.
U.S. Rejects WHO Health Amendments
The U.S. Department of State, in coordination with HHS, has officially rejected the 2024 amendments to the International Health Regulations (IHR), which were adopted by the World Health Assembly. The amendments aimed to expand the World Health Organization’s (WHO) authority in managing global public health emergencies. U.S. officials argue these changes infringe on national sovereignty and individual rights.
Stated reasons for the rejection:
WHO gains too much power in declaring and managing global health emergencies without proper oversight.
FACT CHECK: The amendments do propose increased coordination powers for WHO in emergencies, but they do not give the WHO the ability to override national governments or enforce policies unilaterally. Implementation still depends on member states.
International health rules should not dictate domestic policy, especially if developed without adequate U.S. input.
FACT CHECK: While IHR amendments are technically binding under international law, enforcement mechanisms are weak, and states often retain discretion in implementation.
The amendments promote information control and censorship, potentially suppressing open scientific discussion.
FACT CHECK: There is no explicit language in the amendments mandating censorship or suppressing scientific debate. Concerns stem from possible national implementation, not from WHO directives.
DOS and HHS oppose the push for internationally mandated digital health IDs, citing privacy concerns.
FACT CHECK: The amendments promote the use of standardized digital health tools for international travel and coordination, but countries are not compelled to adopt any specific technology.
WHO is susceptible to political manipulation, undermining trust in its objectivity.
FACT CHECK: WHO faced criticism for its early response to COVID-19, particularly its interactions with China. However, there is no direct evidence the new amendments increase such influence.
NATO Moves to Arm Ukraine with Patriot Systems as Defense Talks Continue Behind Closed Doors
NATO’s Supreme Allied Commander Europe, U.S. Air Force Gen. Alexus Grynkewich, stated that he is under directive to expedite the transfer of additional Patriot air and missile defense systems to Ukraine. Speaking at the inaugural LandEuro conference in Wiesbaden, Germany on July 17, Grynkewich emphasized operational secrecy, refusing to disclose specific quantities or timelines to avoid alerting Russia.
In a related development, NATO announced that on Monday, July 21, 2025, Secretary General Mark Rutte will participate in a virtual meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group. The meeting will be off the record with no media access and will focus on coordinating the schedule for the purchase and delivery of weapons to Ukraine.
EU and UK Tighten Sanctions on Russia Amid Intensified War Efforts
The European Union and the United Kingdom have introduced new sanctions against Russia, escalating pressure on Moscow. The EU’s latest measures—described by EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas as one of the bloc’s strongest packages—target Russia’s energy sector, oil exports, banking system, and shadow fleet of over 400 tankers. A new oil price cap just under $48 per barrel was agreed upon to curb Russian energy revenue, along with additional import bans and sanctions on the Nord Stream pipelines.
Ukraine's President Zelenskyy praised the sanctions as "timely and necessary," while the Kremlin dismissed them as ineffective.
Meanwhile, the UK imposed sanctions on Russia’s military intelligence service (GRU) and 18 officers involved in attacks in Ukraine and Europe, including the deadly bombing of a theater in Mariupol in 2022.
Sanction negotiations have become increasingly difficult within the EU, with some member states like Slovakia resisting measures that could harm their own energy security. Despite internal challenges, Western allies, including NATO, reaffirmed their coordinated stance against Russian aggression.
Zelenskyy and Macron Discuss Enhanced Defense Cooperation and Air Security
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy spoke with French President Emmanuel Macron to discuss the frontline situation and Ukraine's pressing defense needs. Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for Macron’s strategic support, particularly in strengthening Ukraine’s air defenses, including missile supplies for SAMP/T systems and drone financing. Both leaders agreed to coordinate with partners on new protective measures via their Defense and Foreign Ministries. France also offered to train more Ukrainian pilots on Mirage aircraft. The conversation touched on continued collaboration within the Coalition of the Willing and progress from the recent Rome summit. Zelenskyy also thanked France for its role in advancing the EU’s 18th sanctions package against Russia, with ongoing efforts to increase international pressure on Moscow.
Ukraine Appoints New Prime Minister Amid Government Shakeup and Intensified Drone War
On Wednesday, Ukraine appointed Yuliia Svyrydenko as its new prime minister—the first change in the role since the war began. Formerly the economic minister, Svyrydenko played a key role in negotiating a critical minerals deal with the U.S. She outlined her top priorities as strengthening army supplies, expanding domestic weapons production, and advancing Ukraine’s technological defense capabilities. Outgoing Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal was named defense minister, while other key positions were filled by former deputies.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy urged the new government to boost defense cooperation with allies and ramp up weapons production. The reshuffle comes amid domestic criticism, with opponents accusing Zelenskyy of authoritarian tendencies—concerns that escalated following a recent raid on an anticorruption activist.
Meanwhile, Russia and Ukraine have intensified their drone warfare. Russia claimed to have downed over 140 Ukrainian drones, while Ukraine targeted Moscow, occupied Crimea, and multiple Russian regions. Earlier in the week, Russia launched a massive drone and missile barrage across Ukraine. Zelenskyy revealed that Ukraine and the U.S. are discussing a “megadeal” on drones, aimed at mutual support and sharing battlefield expertise.
Russian Press Highlights Ongoing Economic Struggles
According to BBC’s Steven Rosenberg, today’s Russian newspapers are once again dominated by reports of deepening economic hardship across the country. Key headlines include:
"To pay utility bills, some Russians are falling into debt"
Rising household costs are pushing many citizens into borrowing just to cover basic services.
"Rise in bread prices outstripping inflation"
A staple of the Russian diet, bread has become disproportionately expensive, triggering concern among both consumers and economists.
"Cement factories on the brink"
Industrial sectors are feeling the squeeze, with cement manufacturers warning of possible shutdowns amid supply and demand pressures.
Calls to "freeze basic food prices to battle inflation"
Politicians and analysts are urging the government to cap prices on essential goods to combat runaway inflation and preserve food access for low-income families.
Ceasefire in Sweida Falters Amid Renewed Fighting and Israeli Strikes
A fragile ceasefire in southern Syria unraveled on Wednesday as Druze and Bedouin militias resumed fighting in the city of Sweida, despite an agreement between the Syrian government and Druze leaders that was meant to take effect the same day. The renewed clashes come after a week of intense violence that has left more than 350 dead and raised fears about the stability of Syria’s ongoing political transition.
The ceasefire, brokered with the help of American, Arab, and Turkish mediators, prompted Syrian forces to withdraw from Sweida and included a pledge to form a joint committee with the Druze community to manage local security. However, internal divisions within the Druze leadership led to the collapse of a previous truce on Tuesday, and fighting reignited shortly after Wednesday's agreement.
Complicating the situation further, Israel launched multiple airstrikes on Damascus this week, including attacks on the Syrian defense ministry and areas near the presidential palace. Israel claimed the strikes were in defense of Syria’s Druze minority, concentrated near Sweida. At least three people were killed and more than thirty wounded, according to Syria’s health ministry.
Syrian interim president Ahmed al-Sharaa condemned the Israeli strikes, warning they risked “large-scale escalation,” while reaffirming the government’s commitment to protecting the Druze. The Syrian Ministry of the Interior stated that government forces were not involved in the latest round of militia clashes.
US and Israel Celebrate Joint Success in Iran Conflict During Pentagon Meeting
U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. Dan Caine hosted Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz at the Pentagon to reaffirm the strength of U.S.-Israel defense ties and celebrate the success of joint military operations against Iran. The leaders highlighted Operation Rising Lion, a 12-day war in June 2025 marked by Israel’s surprise strikes on Iranian nuclear and military sites, and Operation Midnight Hammer, a pivotal U.S.-led airstrike on key Iranian nuclear facilities. Both Hegseth and Katz praised the cooperation that led to Iran’s diminished capabilities, while emphasizing hopes for long-term peace. Katz’s visit follows a recent Pentagon meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu.
NATIONAL NEWS
Senate Approves Trump’s Budget Rollbacks
The Senate passed a bill supporting President Donald Trump’s plan to cancel $9 billion in previously approved foreign aid and public broadcasting funds. The legislation passed over objections from some Republicans who argued it undermines Congress’s constitutional authority over federal spending.
Stablecoin Legislation Becomes Law
President Trump signed a landmark bill establishing a regulatory framework for U.S. dollar–pegged cryptocurrencies, known as stablecoins. This move is seen as a major step toward integrating digital assets into everyday transactions. The House passed the bill earlier, making it the first major piece of U.S. cryptocurrency legislation.
Federal Judge Blocks Confession Reporting Law
A federal judge barred Washington state from enforcing a law requiring Catholic priests to report child abuse learned during confession. The Trump administration intervened on behalf of the clergy.
Alina Habba’s Term as U.S. Attorney Nears End
Alina Habba, Acting U.S. Attorney for the District of New Jersey, notified her office that her temporary appointment will expire July 22, 2025. Lacking support from district judges, she may be replaced by either First Assistant Desiree Grace or former Judge Noel Lawrence Hillman. Trump has yet to withdraw or re-submit her stalled nomination.
Challenge to Trump’s Birthright Citizenship Efforts
A federal judge is poised to rule against another Trump administration attempt to restrict birthright citizenship. This follows a recent U.S. Supreme Court decision limiting lower courts' ability to block presidential directives.
FTC Firing Ruled Illegal
A federal judge ruled that President Trump’s removal of Democratic FTC Commissioner Rebecca Kelly Slaughter violated federal law. The court found that the administration had not adhered to required legal protections for removal.
Colbert’s Show Cancelled Amid Merger Controversy
CBS announced that The Late Show with Stephen Colbert will conclude in May 2026. The network cited financial reasons, though the cancellation follows Colbert’s on-air criticism of CBS’s parent company and its settlement with Trump. The company is seeking merger approval from the Trump administration.
White House, Columbia University Settle Lawsuit
The White House and Columbia University are nearing a resolution to their legal dispute. The university is expected to pay a $200 million fine as part of the settlement.
Trump Health Disclosure Sparks Speculation
President Trump’s physician disclosed that he suffers from chronic venous insufficiency, a common condition causing leg swelling. The announcement followed viral images showing makeup on his hand and swollen ankles at the FIFA World Cup Final. The doctor attributed the hand appearance to frequent handshaking and daily aspirin use, though some experts speculated IV coverups.
Epstein Grand Jury Transcripts May Be Unsealed
President Trump asked Attorney General Pam Bondi to produce all pertinent grand jury testimony in the Jeffrey Epstein case, pending court approval. Bondi later confirmed the Justice Department would move to unseal the transcripts.
No Special Prosecutor in Epstein Case
Despite pressure from supporters, the Trump administration confirmed it will not appoint a special prosecutor in the Epstein case.
New Postmaster General Promises Stability
Newly appointed U.S. Postmaster General David Steiner assured employees that the Postal Service will function successfully as an independent, self-financing entity. Steiner emphasized the agency's unique business-like structure and public service mission.
Medicaid Data Shared with ICE
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is providing Immigration and Customs Enforcement access to personal data of 79 million Medicaid enrollees to identify individuals potentially in the U.S. illegally.
RNC Sues New Jersey Over Voter Records
The Republican National Committee filed a lawsuit against New Jersey’s Division of Elections, demanding records related to voter roll maintenance.
Trump Reshapes Labor Board
President Trump moved to establish a Republican majority on the National Labor Relations Board following the controversial firing of a Democratic member, which has left the board in gridlock.
Trump Signs Environmental Rollbacks
President Trump signed four proclamations providing two years of regulatory relief from Biden-era EPA rules. The measures apply to coal plants, taconite iron facilities, and chemical manufacturers in key industries like defense and semiconductor production.
Executive Order Targets Federal Workforce
Trump signed an executive order creating a new classification of non-career federal employees who may be more easily dismissed for not implementing presidential priorities.
January 6 Lawsuits Dismissed
A federal judge dismissed lawsuits from FBI agents who sought to block the administration from publicly naming individuals involved in the January 6 investigation.
Trump Denies Powell Firing Rumors
President Trump denied intending to fire Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, saying it’s unlikely “unless he has to leave for fraud.” Trump previously criticized Powell over interest rates and a $2.5 billion Fed renovation project.
Fed Renovation Under Scrutiny
Chair Powell defended the Federal Reserve’s expensive headquarters renovation, citing safety upgrades and hazardous materials removal. Meanwhile, Fed Governor Chris Waller, a proponent of rate cuts, said he’d accept the Fed chair role if Trump offered—though no contact has been made.
Interest Rates & Inflation Unresolved
As the Fed approaches its next policy meeting, rising inflation and Trump’s pressure for lower rates leave the path of monetary policy uncertain.
Juul E-Cigarettes Approved by FDA
The FDA approved Juul e-cigarettes for sale in the U.S., ending a long regulatory dispute. The decision marks a major victory for the embattled vaping company.
Humana Loses Medicare Ratings Lawsuit
A Texas judge dismissed Humana’s lawsuit challenging reduced Medicare star ratings. The decision could reduce the insurer’s federal bonus payments, and shares of multiple insurers fell in response.
Tech CEO Charged in $300M Fraud
The founder of now-bankrupt fashion tech startup CaaStle was criminally charged with defrauding investors out of more than $300 million, the U.S. Department of Justice announced.
Tariffs on Chinese EV Materials
The U.S. Commerce Department will impose preliminary 93.5% anti-dumping duties on anode-grade graphite imported from China, citing unfair pricing practices. The material is essential for EV batteries.
Crypto Framework Passes House
The House passed a bill to expand the Commodity Futures Trading Commission’s oversight of cryptocurrencies, supporting the framework Trump signed into law. The move could significantly shape U.S. crypto regulation going forward.
Lawmakers Condemn Food Aid Database
Members of Congress criticized the Trump administration’s plan to build a database of food aid recipients to check immigration status, calling it a violation of privacy rights.
State Department Shutters Diplomatic Support Office
The Trump administration abruptly closed the State Department’s Office of Casualty Assistance (OCA), which supported diplomats’ families after deaths or injuries abroad. Critics say the move, part of broader “America First” cuts, undermines critical care during repatriation and crises.
DEFENSE
U.S. Defense and Military Updates
Air Force Helicopter Fleet to Support VIP Transport
The Air Force’s 2026 budget includes plans to modify HH-60W helicopters to ferry VIPs around Washington, D.C., marking a major shift in the service’s rotary-wing fleet.
Defense Spending Increases in NDAA
The Senate Armed Services Committee released its version of the 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which authorizes the Air Force and Space Force to spend billions more than requested. The House Armed Services Committee also passed its draft of the NDAA in a 55–2 vote after intense debate on issues ranging from Trump’s proposed use of a Qatari jet as Air Force One to cutting military aid to Ukraine.
$10 Billion in Savings Claimed Under DOGE Initiative
The Department of the Air Force announced over $10 billion in savings under President Trump’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) initiative. The bulk of these savings come from cancelled consulting contracts and civilian job reductions, though no full breakdown was provided.
Air Force and Space Force Leadership Changes
Gen. Thomas A. Bussiere has been nominated to become the new Air Force Vice Chief of Staff.
Lt. Gen. Shawn N. Bratton is expected to receive a fourth star and become Vice Chief of Space Operations.
Space Force & Defense Innovation
Space Force Promotes NCOs at Record Pace
The Space Force continues to promote junior noncommissioned officers (NCOs) at unusually high rates, reflecting the service’s rapid growth and personnel needs.
Space Force's First International Strategy
The U.S. Space Force released its first International Partnership Strategy, signaling a shift toward treating allies as co-developers and operational partners, not just customers.
Space Acquisition Reform Proposed
Mark Berkowitz, President Trump’s nominee for Assistant Secretary of Defense for Space Policy, coauthored an essay arguing that combining the National Reconnaissance Office with Space Systems Command would enhance U.S. space acquisition and readiness.
Tech, Procurement & Capability Enhancements
Air Force's Next-Gen Engine Delayed
The Next Generation Adaptive Propulsion (NGAP) program faces a two-year delay, pushing completion beyond fiscal 2030. Engine makers GE Aerospace and Pratt & Whitney are currently producing competing designs.
Wolf Pack Munitions: AI-Enabled Swarm Warfare
L3Harris unveiled “Wolf Pack” munitions, a low-cost, swarming aerial attack system that combines kinetic and electronic warfare capabilities to overwhelm enemy defenses through collaboration and autonomy.
Boost for Space & Tech in NDAA
The House version of the NDAA includes major investments in:
Commercial satellite imagery
Autonomy systems
Golden Dome
It also adds congressional oversight over Pentagon contracting and outreach to tech firms
RDT&E Budget Surges Past $179 Billion
The Pentagon’s FY2026 budget includes $179 billion for Research, Development, Testing & Evaluation (RDT&E), supporting next-gen technologies rather than direct procurement of platforms.
Modernization & Readiness Initiatives
Drone Policy Expands Access Across Bases
New policy changes allow base commanders more authority to approve small drones for troop training, in line with Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth’s recent memo emphasizing drone proliferation across the services.
Lockheed Tests Multi-Mission Truck
Lockheed Martin revealed a second version of its Common Multi-Mission Truck, with both variants recently undergoing successful tests.
UK’s Tempest Fighter Demo Unveiled
The UK released the first rendering of its Tempest next-gen air combat demonstrator, which resembles the F-35 but lacks horizontal stabilizers and includes other distinctive aerodynamic changes.
Ukraine & European Defense Support
Patriot Missiles for Ukraine
U.S. officials informed Switzerland that Patriot missile systems originally slated for the Swiss military will be diverted to support Ukraine’s defense.
U.S. Bolsters European Posture
The NDAA includes funding to strengthen U.S. force posture in Europe, as well as continued military and economic support for Ukraine.
Cybersecurity and Cultural Reform
Chinese Hack Breach Escalates
A Chinese cyber unit breached U.S. National Guard networks in a significant escalation of previous intrusions into telecom infrastructure, raising concerns about deeper access to Defense Department systems.
Toxic Culture Allegations at Bomber Wing
An Air Force colonel, set to lead Ellsworth Air Force Base’s 28th Bomb Wing, sharply criticized the bomber unit’s internal culture in a scathing crash report. The findings have reignited concerns about squadron discipline and leadership.
Lessons from Abroad
Israel-Iran Conflict Exposes Air Defense Gaps
Israel’s recent conflict with Iran highlighted vulnerabilities in even the most sophisticated air defense systems. Over 12 days, Iran managed to pierce Israeli defenses with increasing success, raising concerns globally among nations relying heavily on missile defense systems.
GLOBAL NEWS
U.S. Foreign Policy and Economic Measures
Trump Pushes for Minimum Tariff on EU Goods
President Donald Trump is reportedly pushing for a minimum tariff of 15% to 20% in any trade deal with the European Union, according to the Financial Times. Even if an agreement is reached, the administration is said to be considering reciprocal tariff rates exceeding 10%.
Philippines to Deliver Economic Message to Trump
Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is scheduled to visit the U.S. next week with a clear message: the Philippines must grow economically stronger to be a robust partner. A government official confirmed the visit and the intended message to President Trump.
Trump Executive Order Spurs Language Training in Mexico
Mexican truck drivers in Ciudad Juárez have begun studying English in response to a Trump executive order mandating English proficiency for commercial drivers operating in the U.S.
U.S. Repatriates Separated Venezuelan Children
Seven Venezuelan migrant children previously separated from their families in U.S. custody have been returned home, Venezuelan Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello and First Lady Cilia Flores announced on Friday.
Sanctions Campaign Targets Brazil’s Judiciary
A son of Brazil’s former president Jair Bolsonaro is reportedly working with the White House to impose sanctions on a Brazilian Supreme Court judge who is set to preside over Bolsonaro’s upcoming trial, The Washington Post reports.
Rubio Orders Diplomats to Stay Silent on Foreign Elections
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio instructed diplomats worldwide not to comment on the fairness of foreign elections, marking a significant shift from the U.S.'s historic stance of promoting free and fair voting abroad. (Reuters)
Security and Military Developments
U.S. Strikes Damage Iran’s Fordo Nuclear Facility
An American intelligence report has concluded that U.S. military strikes damaged or possibly destroyed Iran’s heavily fortified nuclear enrichment facility at Fordo.
Designation of Kashmiri Militant Group
The U.S. government designated the Resistance Front, believed to be a Lashkar-e-Taiba offshoot, as a foreign terrorist organization. The group is blamed for the April 22 militant attack in Indian-administered Kashmir that killed 26 people.
Drone Attacks on Iraqi Oil Fields
Two drone strikes hit oil fields in Iraq’s Kurdish region this week. The first, at Sarsang, occurred just before a new development deal was signed. The second, at a Norwegian-operated site, forced a temporary shutdown. No group has claimed responsibility.
Israel and Middle East Affairs
Netanyahu’s Coalition at Risk
Israel's ultra-Orthodox party Shas announced it will leave Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition over a proposed law to end religious exemptions from military service. It is the second party to exit the coalition this week, leaving Netanyahu without a majority.
Trump Responds to Gaza Church Strike
President Trump called Prime Minister Netanyahu following a deadly Israeli strike on Gaza’s sole Catholic church. The White House stated Trump did not react positively to the incident.
Global Human Rights & Migration
El Salvador Rights Group Forced Into Exile
Twenty members of Cristobal, a prominent Salvadoran human rights organization, have fled the country due to President Nayib Bukele’s ongoing crackdown on critics. Only the group’s jailed anticorruption director remains in El Salvador.
Eswatini Deportation Controversy
The Kingdom of Eswatini said it will repatriate five migrants recently deported there by the U.S., despite the men having no ties to the country. The migrants are from Cuba, Jamaica, Laos, Vietnam, and Yemen. U.S. officials said the deportations occurred because the migrants’ home countries refused to accept them.
European Affairs
UK to Lower Voting Age
The UK will lower its national voting age from 18 to 16 in time for the next general election, the government announced. The change is part of a broader reform package from the Labour Party, including safeguards against foreign influence and donation reforms.
UK-Germany Sign Defense and Migration Deal
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz signed a new defense and migration agreement aimed at increasing joint defense exports and curbing smuggling.
Spain Investigates Far-Right Clashes
Spain will intensify investigations into far-right and racist groups after violent clashes with African migrants in Murcia. The unrest began following an alleged attack on a man last Friday. Authorities have detained eleven individuals, including an anti-immigrant group leader.
Shift in EU Asylum Patterns
Spain has overtaken Germany as the top destination for asylum seekers in the EU, according to an unpublished EU report. The shift follows a sharp decline in Syrian applicants after Assad’s fall, and a rise in Venezuelan asylum claims—likely influenced by Trump-era immigration policies.
Public Health and Climate
Sudan Sees Collapse in Vaccination Rates
Routine childhood vaccination rates in Sudan have fallen from 90% in 2022 to just 48%, according to the World Health Organization. The dramatic drop is attributed to the ongoing civil war, leaving Sudan with the lowest rates in the world.
Monsoon Devastation in Pakistan
Heavy monsoon rains in Pakistan's Punjab region have killed 63 people and injured over 300 in the past 24 hours. Nationwide, deaths have surpassed 150 since June, with many caused by building collapses. Over half of the victims were children.
Business & Tech
Elon Musk Eyes Expansion in India
Elon Musk is reportedly making progress on plans to expand Starlink and Tesla in India. Talks are ongoing with government and private stakeholders.
CANADA UPDATE
July 15–16: Prime Minister Mark Carney acknowledged that any trade agreement with President Trump would necessarily involve tariffs, abandoning hopes for a purely tariff-free deal. Talks are ongoing, with particular attention on softwood lumber issues.
July 16: Ottawa imposed a tariff-rate quota limiting steel imports (excluding the U.S.) and announced 25% tariffs on steel with Chinese melt/refinement. Additionally, new Canadian procurement rules, a C$1 billion fund for steel innovation, and prioritized use of domestic steel were introduced. Get the details here.
July 18: China criticized these measures, claiming they breach WTO rules and warned of possible retaliatory action.
July 17–18: International Trade Minister Maninder Sidhu announced active efforts to negotiate free-trade agreements with Mercosur, the Indo-Pacific, China, and India, citing the need to reduce Canada’s dependence on U.S. markets (which dropped to 68% in May from a historic 75%).
July 17: PM Carney engaged First Nations rights-holders regarding the Building Canada Act.
July 18: Carney announced upcoming talks in Inuvik, N.W.T. with Inuit leaders focused on a “major projects” bill.
July 18: Minister Marjorie Michel scheduled an announcement to address the substance use and overdose crisis in Atlantic Canada.
TODAY IN HISTORY
64 AD – Great Fire of Rome begins: A fire broke out in Rome under Emperor Nero’s reign and raged for six days, destroying much of the city. Rumors claimed Nero "fiddled while Rome burned," though this is likely apocryphal.
1290 – Edict of Expulsion: King Edward I of England issued the Edict of Expulsion, expelling all Jews from England. This order remained in effect for over 350 years, until it was formally overturned in the 1650s.
1925 – Mein Kampf is published: Adolf Hitler's autobiographical manifesto, Mein Kampf, was published. It laid out his ideology and future plans for Germany, many of which became tragically real during WWII.
1936 – Spanish Civil War begins: The military rebellion led by General Francisco Franco marked the start of the Spanish Civil War. It would lead to years of bloody conflict and Franco’s eventual dictatorship.
1968 – Intel is founded: Robert Noyce and Gordon Moore founded Intel Corporation, which would go on to become a giant in the semiconductor industry.
1995 – Soufrière Hills volcano erupts: On the island of Montserrat in the Caribbean, the previously dormant Soufrière Hills volcano erupted, eventually burying the capital city, Plymouth, and forcing mass evacuations.
COMING UP
Ukraine Defense Contact Group—Virtual Meeting on Monday
On Monday, July 21, 2025, the Ukraine Defense Contact Group—also known as the “Ramstein format”—will convene via videoconference. The session will be jointly chaired by NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, alongside representatives from the United Kingdom, Germany, and other NATO allies, to coordinate ongoing support and strategic planning for Ukraine.
Japan’s Upper House Election This Sunday
Japan will hold its House of Councillors (upper house) election on Sunday, July 20, 2025.
Key Points:
The ruling LDP–Komeito coalition, led by PM Shigeru Ishiba, must win at least 50 of the 125 seats to retain a majority; polls suggest they may fall short.
The far-right Sanseito party is gaining ground, capitalizing on rising public frustration with inflation, rice prices, and concerns about foreign influence.
Market indicators show pressure: the yen is nearing two-month lows, and government bond yields have risen due to fiscal uncertainty.
A major campaign focus is economic relief—including rice price controls and cash handouts—to offset inflation and living costs.
That's all for now. Thank you for reading. The next Newsroom Briefing will arrive on Monday.
Comments