Newsroom Briefing | July 4th, 2025

Olga Nesterova
2 days ago
20 min read

Updated: 2 days ago

Today is Independence Day in America.

It can feel difficult to embrace the usual patriotic spirit — the songs, the flag-themed clothes and food — when we’re living through one of the most sobering and uncertain chapters in our nation’s history. The American system, long trusted to correct the consequences of flawed political choices and admired around the world as the foundation of a great democracy, is being challenged in profound ways.

But on this day, I’d like to offer one small, hopeful reminder: America, known as the land of the free, can only remain so if you stay a free thinker. That freedom starts with consuming facts, thinking critically, and forming your own informed opinions. In a time when so much feels out of our control, this is one thing that still is.

So, trade clickbait for credible journalism. Replace fear-mongering with informed calm. Defend your freedom not just with words or symbols, but with awareness and truth.

Let’s take a moment to thank our troops for their selfless sacrifice and tremendous service. And let’s wish one another a peaceful, safe Fourth of July.

May you find joy in the company of those around you — because in the end, that’s what truly matters.

At ONEST, we believe real patriotism means upholding the freedom to know, question, and understand. If you value that mission, we’d be grateful for your support in keeping this work independent and accessible.

Thank you for reading, and for caring about the truth.

Debt Concerns and Political Drama Surround Trump’s Domestic Policy Bill

What does the bill do:

Extends tax cuts that had been scheduled to expire at the end of the year
Eliminates some taxes on tips and overtime pay
Funds more defense, ICE, and border security
Cuts Medicaid funding by nearly $1 trillion
Increases the debt limit by $5 trillion

President Trump’s domestic policy bill, which passed the House on Thursday, would reportedly add $3.4 trillion to the federal debt over the next decade, on top of the existing $29 trillion already owed. The U.S. is expected to pay more than $1 trillion in interest next year — surpassing Medicare spending for the first time.

Countries issue bonds to investors both at home and abroad. Japan, for example, has the highest debt-to-GDP ratio among wealthy nations but remains more stable because nearly 90% of its debt is held domestically. In contrast, about a third of U.S. debt — roughly $8.5 trillion — is owned by foreign investors, meaning significant interest payments flow overseas.

How it happened

After a narrow 219–213 vote that advanced the bill, with just one Republican joining all Democrats in opposition, House debates continued into the early hours on Thursday. Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries questioned the bill’s merits. Republicans managed to suppress a conservative revolt threatening to derail the bill, though Trump expressed frustration on social media:"What are the Republicans waiting for??? MAGA IS NOT HAPPY, AND IT’S COSTING YOU VOTES!!!"

Democrats remained united against the measure. Meanwhile, Trump attempted to win over reluctant Republican House members with signed merchandise and photos at the Oval Office. Rep. Tim Burchett (TN) shared: "The president was great, as always. He was informative and funny, and he told me he enjoys seeing me on TV — which was pretty cool."

In the end, it worked.

218–214.

I summed up the news from July 3rd in a recent ONEST NOW recap. Please watch it here.

President Donald Trump will sign the bill into law today.

Iranian Hackers Claim Theft of 100GB of Emails from Trump’s Inner Circle

Iranian-linked hackers, operating under the name "Robert," claim to have stolen nearly 100 gigabytes of emails from individuals close to President Donald Trump. The stolen data reportedly includes communications from key figures such as White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, attorney Lindsey Halligan, political adviser Roger Stone, and adult film actress Stormy Daniels.

The hackers have threatened to release or sell the emails but have not shared specific details about the contents or potential buyers. Some of the emails have been authenticated by Reuters and reportedly include discussions about financial dealings involving Trump and his associates.

U.S. authorities, including the FBI and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), have condemned the breach as a serious national security threat and described it as a “calculated smear campaign” aimed at discrediting Trump and his team. The U.S. Justice Department has attributed the cyberattack to Iran’s Revolutionary Guards.

This is not the first time the hackers have targeted Trump’s circle; they previously leaked sensitive communications and financial documents during the 2024 election campaign.

US Criticizes Biden Over Weapons Shipments to Kyiv

Pentagon press secretary Sean Parnell accused the previous administration of having “recklessly handed out weapons to Ukraine” over four years. He added that pausing weapons deliveries now would benefit the U.S. by allowing time to assess the condition of its own stockpiles.

Let me remind you that the U.S. used the allocated aid for Ukraine to replenish its stockpiles by replacing old equipment — including planes, defense systems, and other critical military assets — that were sent to Ukraine with brand-new replacements.

Sanctions Surged Under Biden Compared to Trump Administration

According to the New York Times, under President Biden, the U.S. has imposed an average of 170 new sanctions per month on Russia and its enablers, targeting sectors such as energy, weapons, banking, and technology. In contrast, under President Trump, no new sanctions were introduced.

Summary of Trump-Putin Call: Economic, Middle East, and Ukraine Talks

Here’s a summary of the Trump-Putin conversation according to TASS:

Duration & Tone: The call lasted nearly an hour, with both leaders speaking in a “businesslike and specific manner”.
Opening Remarks: Trump informed Putin about the passage of his economic bill. Putin congratulated Trump on U.S. Independence Day, acknowledging Russia's role in American statehood.
Middle East & Iran: They discussed the situation around Iran and the broader Middle East.
Cultural Exchange: They touched on the idea of exchanging films that promote traditional values shared by Russia and the U.S. administration.
Future Meeting: They didn’t discuss a specific meeting date, but the possibility was left open ("this idea hangs in the air").
Negotiations on Ukraine: Putin reaffirmed Russia's readiness for continued negotiations with Ukraine, stressing that Russia would not back down from its goals to resolve the conflict. They noted that negotiations in Istanbul would remain bilateral between Russia and Ukraine, with no specific date for the third round.
Trump’s Views: Trump reiterated his desire for an early end to the hostilities in Ukraine, but the topic of halting U.S. arms supplies to Ukraine wasn’t addressed in the conversation.

The call seemed to be “diplomatic with a mix of political, cultural, and international security discussions”, according to TASS.

President Trump commented on his recent conversation with Vladimir Putin: “I am very disappointed in the conversation that I had with President Putin [today], because I don’t think he is ready. And that is very disappointing. I’m just saying I don’t think he is going to stop, and that is sad.

This is all Biden. This is not me. This is Biden’s war. This would not have happened if I were president. So, you know, on the one hand, I had to get too deeply into this, because this is Biden’s war. And I found myself in the middle, as I have already done with migration and many other things that they have screwed up. But I was not happy with the conversation."

Putin Declares “All of Ukraine is Ours” at St. Petersburg Forum

Russian President Vladimir Putin delivered a stunning statement at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, declaring that “all of Ukraine is ours.” In his address, Putin described Ukrainians and Russians as “one nation,” reigniting global fears of a full-scale annexation.

Putin: "Thanks to President Trump the working relationship between Russia and the US is improving. We established cooperation between Departments of State, Treasury etc, this will allow us to combat terrorism together."

On NATO committing to raise defense spending to 5% of GDP, Putin accused the "collective West" of doing so while “projecting Russian aggression” and revisited old grievances about NATO expansion: "They tricked Russia by promising not to advance [NATO expansion] and they advanced, to which we started the special military operation. They said we shouldn't worry, it won't threaten us, but then it did. We know better what threatens us and what does not—it is our right to determine. This is the aggressive behavior [of the West]. Same as they supported separatism, they didn’t want to defend against ISIS when they were fighting in Russia. Everything is fine if it happens against Russia. Look at yourselves. Let them arm themselves. {...} We believe that the reference to Russia's aggressiveness is absolutely a lie. The aggressiveness of the collective West is real."

He also repeated false claims about the occupation of Ukraine, twisting the narrative by asserting that Ukraine had been killing its own people in Donbas for eight years while Russia was merely protecting them.

Russia is the aggressor. This is a fact.

Trump and Zelenskyy Discuss Air Defense and Drone Production

Today, Trump spoke with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. According to Zelenskyy, they discussed air defense and joint drone production amid ongoing Russian strikes.

Zelenskyy: "Today we discussed the situation: Russian air strikes and, more broadly, the situation on the front lines.”

U.S. Defense Secretary Hegseth Halts Weapons Shipment to Ukraine

NBC News reports that U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth unilaterally halted a weapons shipment to Ukraine, despite military analysis showing it wouldn’t compromise U.S. readiness.

The move reportedly blindsided Congress, the State Department, Kyiv, and European allies. Some of the weapons, including Patriot interceptors and air-to-air missiles, were already loaded for delivery in Poland.

This is the third time Hegseth has paused aid without prior coordination.

German Chancellor Merz and Trump Discuss Arms Deliveries to Ukraine

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz spoke with U.S. President Donald Trump by phone on Thursday about arms deliveries to Ukraine, a spokesperson for the German leader told Reuters.

Merz initiated the call with Trump, the spokesperson said on Friday.

Meanwhile, Bild reported that Merz is working on a deal with Trump to buy two Patriot systems for Ukraine.

Keir Starmer’s Leadership Under Threat as Frustration Grows Within Labour Party

Dissatisfaction with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s leadership is reportedly growing within the Labour Party, with influential MPs warning he could be ousted within months. Sources told Sky News that poor election results in May 2026, particularly in Wales, Scotland, and London, could be "fatal" for his tenure.

Even current Labour ministers acknowledge the rising frustration, signaling that Starmer’s position could be in jeopardy after just two years in office. Starmer became prime minister in July 2024, following a period of political instability marked by three different prime ministers.

USCENTCOM Commander Strengthens Regional Partnerships During Middle East Trip

From June 30 to July 3, 2023, Gen. Michael Erik Kurilla, Commander of U.S. Central Command (USCENTCOM), visited multiple countries in the Middle East and Eastern Mediterranean to engage with U.S. service members and strengthen military cooperation with regional defense leaders. The trip included stops in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Jordan, Israel, and Greece.

In Saudi Arabia, Gen. Kurilla met with top military officials and recognized the operational achievement of the Royal Saudi Armed Forces’ THAAD system. He also discussed regional security concerns with Yemeni leadership.

In Qatar, Gen. Kurilla visited Al-Udeid Air Base, where he acknowledged U.S. service members' efforts in defending against Iranian aggression. In Jordan, he reinforced the U.S.-Jordan defense partnership and discussed regional stability with military leaders.

In Israel, Gen. Kurilla met with Israeli Defense Forces leaders to improve U.S.-Israel military interoperability and discussed regional security strategies. The trip concluded in Greece at NSA Souda Bay, where he praised the U.S. Navy’s contributions to regional defense.

Throughout the visit, Gen. Kurilla emphasized the professionalism of U.S. forces and their critical role in ensuring regional stability, deterrence, and readiness.

Zelenskyy Honors 11-Year-Old Danish Volunteer with "Future of Ukraine" Award

In a heartfelt ceremony in Denmark, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy presented the inaugural “Future of Ukraine” award to 11-year-old Jens Fogh Thomsen for his unwavering support of Ukrainian children affected by the war.

Zelenskyy expressed deep gratitude to Jens, acknowledging his efforts to support Ukraine’s children, who are enduring the trauma of Russian attacks."You are a great friend of Ukraine," Zelenskyy said, thanking Jens for his dedication, including raising funds for backpacks and school supplies.“All our children are proud to have such friends from Denmark."

Jens began his charitable work last year after seeing reports of Ukrainian children losing their homes. He started crafting Easter decorations — blue and yellow beaded chicks — and through their sale, raised over 34,000 Danish kroner. This money was used to buy essential school supplies for children in war-torn Ukraine.

The “Future of Ukraine” award, established by Zelenskyy in May 2025, recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to Ukraine. Jens is the first foreigner to receive this prestigious honor.

BRICS Summit and U.S.-Asia Relations: Key Developments and Challenges

As the BRICS summit begins in Brazil, experts from the Asia Society Policy Institute (ASPI) are highlighting key diplomatic shifts. A major development is Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s last-minute cancellation of planned visits to Japan and South Korea. ASPI’s Emma Chanlett-Avery views this as a significant blow to U.S.-Asian relations, with tensions already high due to tariff disputes and missed diplomatic opportunities. Rubio's trip was set to coincide with the critical July 9 tariff deadline, worsening the situation.

Meanwhile, the BRICS summit faces its own challenges, notably the absence of both President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Xi's decision not to attend eliminates the potential for a Modi-Xi one-on-one, leaving Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi as the most prominent leader at the summit. While Modi may meet with Indonesian and Iranian counterparts, the absence of key leaders raises questions about the summit's influence.

The summit takes place amid growing global tensions, including the Iran-Israel conflict and rising India-Pakistan hostilities, as well as economic concerns tied to U.S. trade policies. While BRICS’ expanded membership offers opportunities for cooperation, differences among members could complicate efforts to achieve a unified agenda. With these challenges, the summit's outcomes remain uncertain, and U.S.-Asia relations continue to evolve in a tense diplomatic landscape.

NATIONAL NEWS

Appeals Court Blocks Texas Law Allowing Arrest of Border Crossers

Texas authorities may not enforce a Republican-backed state law that would allow them to arrest and prosecute people suspected of illegally crossing the U.S.-Mexico border, a divided federal appeals court ruled late Thursday.

Trump Plans UFC Event at White House for U.S. 250th Anniversary

U.S. President Donald Trump said on Thursday he is planning to bring an Ultimate Fighting Championship event to the White House next year to help celebrate the 250th anniversary of the country's Declaration of Independence.

Trump Proposes Migrant Worker Plan Tied to Farm Owners

U.S. President Donald Trump said on Thursday he is willing to let migrant laborers stay in the United States if the farmers they work for will vouch for them. While talking to reporters on a tour of a detention camp in Florida, he referred to farms employing undocumented migrants: "We will do what's called Owners Responsibility where farmers get to be responsible for them; [migrants] won't get citizenship, but they pay tax and get other things."

Healthcare Groups Slam Trump’s Tax-Cut and Spending Bill

Healthcare groups condemned the passage of U.S. President Donald Trump’s tax-cut and spending bill on Thursday, warning that its sweeping healthcare provisions would inflict widespread harm on millions of Americans.

Trump Criticized for Using Antisemitic Term in Tax Bill Remarks

U.S. President Donald Trump drew criticism for using the antisemitic term "Shylock" to describe some bankers while promoting his signature tax-cut and spending legislation that just passed Congress. "Think of that: No death tax. No estate tax. No going to the banks and borrowing from, in some cases, a fine banker — and in some cases, Shylocks and bad people,” he said during remarks in Iowa late on Thursday.

Trump’s Tariff Deadline Looms as Partners Face Uncertainty

The deadline U.S. President Donald Trump set for major trading partners to strike deals with Washington or face hefty tariffs expires next week, bringing to a close 90 days of volatility but leaving global investors in the dark over what will happen next.

Fears of ICE Raids Prompt Canceled July 4 Celebrations in LA

Some Latino communities in Los Angeles have canceled Fourth of July celebrations over fears of ICE raids.

Maryland Man Wrongfully Deported to El Salvador Tortured in Prison

Kilmar Armando Abrego Garcia, the Maryland man who was wrongfully deported to El Salvador, was beaten and tortured in prison there, his lawyers say.

Bondi Claims Trump Can Nullify Laws, Raising Overreach Concerns

Attorney General Pam Bondi claimed that Trump has the constitutional power to nullify laws, according to newly disclosed documents. Experts consider it a stark overreach of presidential authority.

EPA Places Employees on Leave Over Letter Criticizing Trump

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency placed 139 employees on administrative leave after they signed a letter critical of President Donald Trump's policies, with the agency saying it has "zero tolerance" for those sabotaging the government's agenda.

Supreme Court to Rule on Deportations and Transgender Athlete Bans

Supreme Court justices said the U.S. could deport eight migrants to South Sudan, even though they have no connection to the war-torn nation. The court will also rule on the constitutionality of state laws that bar transgender athletes from girls’ and women’s sports teams.

DNI Tulsi Gabbard Criticizes Journalist, Sparks Media Pushback

In a post on X, Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard criticized journalist Ellen Nakashima's reporting methods, saying they reflected a media establishment "desperate to sabotage POTUS's successful agenda," referring to the president of the United States.

In response, Washington Post Executive Editor Matt Murray said Nakashima has been "one of the most careful, fair-minded, and highly regarded reporters covering national security." In a statement, he said Gabbard's attack reflected a misunderstanding about journalism. "Reaching out to potential sources rather than relying solely on official government press statements regarding matters of public interest is neither nefarious nor is it harassment," Murray said.

Public criticism of individual journalists by top U.S. national security officials is historically rare. But Trump has made attacks on the media a staple of his speeches, and administration officials are increasingly adopting his approach to critical press coverage.

IN OTHER NEWS

GE Aerospace to Resume Shipments to China’s COMAC

The U.S. told GE Aerospace on Thursday it can restart jet engine shipments to China's COMAC, according to a person familiar with the matter. It’s seen as a further sign of easing U.S.-China trade tensions, including concessions from Beijing over rare earths.

Tesla’s Global Sales Continue Decline

Tesla’s worldwide car sales fell sharply in the second quarter, continuing a decline that began last year.

Astronomers Spot Rare Visitor from Beyond Our Solar System

For only the third time, astronomers have detected an object passing through our solar system that originated outside it. It appears to be a comet.

Teen Pilot Detained in Antarctica

A teenager who flew a plane to Antarctica was detained by Chilean authorities.

Male Infertility Market Grows to $4 Billion

The global male infertility market is booming, now valued at $4 billion annually. Startups like Legacy and Fellow are attracting big investments — $50 million and $40 million respectively — with high-profile backers, including celebrities. These companies offer convenient at-home fertility services as sperm counts have reportedly dropped by about 50% over the past 40 years, possibly due to diet and stress.

DEFENSE

U.S. Marines Deployed to Support ICE in Florida

The U.S. military said on Thursday it will send 200 Marines to Florida to provide administrative and logistical support to Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The Marines are the first wave of U.S. Northern Command’s support for the immigration enforcement agency’s mission, it said.

NATO Holds Change of Command Ceremony in Belgium

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte attended the change of command ceremony for NATO’s Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR) at Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe (SHAPE) in Mons, Belgium.

U.S. Army General Christopher G. Cavoli relinquished command of Allied Command Operations and SHAPE to General Alexus G. Grynkewich of the United States Air Force.

U.S. Forces in Middle East Prepare for Iranian Threats

Regarding Iran’s nuclear facilities, the U.S. military has been implementing its Agile Combat Employment strategy, dispersing combat aircraft and Airmen from Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar in preparation for possible Iranian retaliatory attacks.

Some defense experts called this a successful use of Agile Combat Employment that may be increasingly necessary as threats from missiles, offensive drones, and other aerial weapons continue to endanger large, fixed air bases.

The U.S. military is maintaining an increased presence in the Middle East, including fighter jets and air defense assets, following U.S. strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities on June 22 and subsequent Iranian retaliation against Al Udeid Air Base.

Air Force Budget Proposals and Incentives

The U.S. Air Force is requesting a $71.2 million increase in hazardous duty incentive pay for commissioned Airmen, anticipating more officer aviators will take the bonus in fiscal year 2026.

The Pentagon’s fiscal 2026 defense budget, submitted to Congress last week, accelerates the downsizing of the U.S. Air Force. It proposes divesting 340 aircraft while acquiring only 76—raising concerns about the service’s ability to prevail in future conflicts.

Pentagon Confirms Pause in Military Aid to Ukraine

A day after the White House confirmed that the U.S. has suspended some military aid to Ukraine, the Pentagon’s chief spokesperson said the decision stemmed from a “larger review of America’s military support for countries around the world.”

Pentagon to Establish Interagency Task Force on Drone Threats

The Department of Defense is creating a joint interagency task force to address drone threats, according to senior Army leadership. “We recently did a session with the Secretary of Defense, and we are going to stand up a joint interagency task force” focused on thwarting drones, said Gen. James Mingus, vice chief of staff of the Army.

Army Plans Hypersonic Round Test with Startup Castelion

As the U.S. Army seeks new, non-traditional industry partners, it is planning to test a developmental hypersonic round from defense startup Castelion that can be launched from a future autonomous launcher, according to budget documents and officials.

Atomic-6 Lands Space Force Contract for Satellite Solar Arrays

Composite materials startup Atomic-6 announced a $2 million agreement with the U.S. Space Force to mature its solar power array technology for military satellite applications.

F-22 Raptors to Receive New Upgrades

The U.S. Air Force’s F-22 Raptor stealth fighters are set to receive a suite of new “viability” upgrades designed to protect them from emerging threats and ensure their continued relevance in future conflicts.

GLOBAL NEWS

Kremlin Reacts to Trump’s Disappointment Over Putin Call

The Kremlin said on Friday that Russia is closely following all of Donald Trump's statements after the U.S. president said he was "very disappointed" with his latest conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin about the war in Ukraine.

Ukrainian Strike Kills Russian Navy Deputy Commander

Ukraine’s SBU and a Russian official both confirmed that the deputy commander of the Russian Navy was killed in a Ukrainian strike in Kursk. Major General Mikhail Gudkov also led a brigade involved in combat operations against Ukraine.

Chechen Leader Kadyrov Reportedly Very Ill

The regional leader of Chechnya in southern Russia, Ramzan Kadyrov, is reported to be very sick and is said to be preparing his 17-year-old son as a potential successor.

Ferry Sinks in Bali, Killing at Least Four

A ferry sank in Bali, killing at least four people. Rescuers saved 31 people from rough seas and were searching for another 32.

Indonesia Launches Free School Lunch Program

Indonesia's president, Prabowo Subianto, is moving forward with a plan to provide free school lunches nationwide. While popular with some, many critics argue it’s not the right time for such a program given the slow economy.

EU Trade Officials Seek Tariff Reductions in Washington Talks

The top European Union (EU) trade negotiator held talks with senior U.S. officials in Washington on Thursday. Unnamed European officials told the Financial Times that countries in the bloc hold differing views on how aggressively to push for tariff reductions.

India-U.S. Interim Trade Deal Nears as Tariff Deadline Looms

An interim trade deal between India and the United States is likely to be finalized in the next 48 hours, with negotiations underway in Washington, sources told NDTV on Thursday. India’s trade team extended its stay last week to resolve key differences as both sides aim to reach a mini-deal before the July 9 deadline, when the pause on U.S. tariffs is set to be lifted. The U.S. has pressed India to open its market to genetically modified crops—a long-standing red line for New Delhi due to risks to its farmers. The U.S. is also demanding greater market access for its agricultural and dairy sectors. However, sources told NDTV Profit that both these sectors are likely to be excluded from the proposed deal due to concerns over rural livelihoods and food safety.

India, meanwhile, is pushing for meaningful tariff concessions on its labor-intensive exports like footwear, garments, and leather, which are major job creators.

Hamas Weighs Israel’s 60-Day Cease-Fire Proposal

Hamas is deciding whether to accept Israel’s latest offer for a 60-day cease-fire in Gaza and the release of hostages. U.S. President Donald Trump said on Friday it would probably be known within 24 hours whether the Palestinian militant group Hamas has agreed to accept what he has called a "final proposal" for an Israel-Hamas ceasefire in Gaza.

U.S. Eases Restrictions on China’s Semiconductor Sector

The U.S. government has removed some export restrictions for three semiconductor design firms, dropping a requirement that they seek U.S. permission to sell their software in China.

These curbs were originally enacted in response to Beijing’s rare earth export restrictions earlier this year, but both countries later agreed to deescalate trade tensions during recent bilateral talks in London.

China’s Wang Yi Urges EU to Lift Rare Earth Curbs

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with EU leaders in Brussels, where EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas urged China to lift rare earth export restrictions and support a lasting peace in Ukraine. Wang emphasized the need for increased mutual understanding, especially in light of rising "unilateralism and acts of bullying." They also discussed nuclear nonproliferation.

The South China Morning Post, citing sources familiar with the conversation, reported that Wang told the EU’s top diplomat on July 3 that China cannot afford for Russia to lose the war in Ukraine, amid fears that the U.S. would shift its strategic focus toward Beijing if Moscow were defeated.

European Council President António Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen are scheduled to visit Beijing later this month.

EU Unveils Draft Law for 90% Emissions Cut by 2040

EU leadership officially presented a draft law to reduce carbon emissions by up to 90 percent from 1990 levels by 2040. Plans for the target were softened in recent months by allowing countries to use carbon credits from overseas in their calculations—a modification opposed by climate action groups. If approved, the 2040 target is expected to serve as a reference for a separate 2035 climate goal to be presented at November’s UN climate talks.

Bangladesh’s Former PM Hasina Sentenced for Contempt

A court in Bangladesh sentenced former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to six months in prison for contempt of court after she said that murder cases against her gave her “license to kill” in a recording that went viral on social media. She is currently living in India after being ousted from leadership last August. It is the first verdict in any lawsuit against her since the downfall of her government.

Follow @onestpress on Bluesky (or X) for live updates.

CANADA UPDATE

Carney Strengthens Ties with Chile

Today, Prime Minister Mark Carney spoke with Chilean President Gabriel Boric. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to democracy and human rights while discussing ways to deepen trade and investment ties. They highlighted strategic cooperation on critical minerals, energy, artificial intelligence, and wildfire response. The two agreed to stay in close contact.

Talks with Malaysia Focus on Trade and Technology

Yesterday, Prime Minister Carney spoke with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. The leaders discussed their strong trade relationship and agreed to expand cooperation in clean and conventional energy, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. They look forward to meeting at the upcoming ASEAN Summit under Malaysia’s chairship.

Auto Industry Leaders Meet Amid U.S. Negotiations

On July 2, Prime Minister Carney met with the leadership of the Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers’ Association and member CEOs. They discussed ongoing negotiations with the United States aiming for a deal by July 21, 2025, the impacts on the sector, and the need to strengthen a made-in-Canada supply chain.

Carney emphasized federal measures to protect Canadian auto workers from unfair tariffs and the potential adjustment of counter-tariffs based on negotiation progress. The meeting also explored opportunities to make Canada’s auto sector more sustainable and competitive.

Canada Day Message Emphasizes Unity and Resilience

On July 1, Canadians celebrated Canada Day. In his message, Prime Minister Carney reflected on 158 years of Confederation and acknowledged the country’s history and partnership with Indigenous Peoples.

He invoked Canada’s tradition of rising to challenges, from Vimy and Normandy to Gander after 9/11, and called for national unity in the face of global uncertainty and attacks on democracy. He pledged to strengthen Canada’s economy, invest in its Armed Forces, and work together to build a stronger, more connected, and resilient nation.

“This is the greatest nation on earth. Our destiny is to make it greater still – not by what we say, but by what we do. Happy Canada Day.”

Calgary Stampede Visit

Today, Prime Minister Carney will tour vendors, stalls, and exhibits on the Calgary Stampede grounds, connecting with Canadians at the iconic event.

TODAY IN HISTORY

1776 – United States Declaration of Independence

The Continental Congress formally adopted the Declaration of Independence in Philadelphia, declaring the 13 American colonies free from British rule. It's now celebrated as Independence Day in the U.S.

1802 – U.S. Military Academy at West Point opens

The U.S. Military Academy officially opened in West Point, New York.

1826 – Death of John Adams and Thomas Jefferson

Former U.S. Presidents John Adams and Thomas Jefferson—both Founding Fathers and signers of the Declaration—died on the same day, exactly 50 years after its adoption.

1831 – Death of James Monroe

James Monroe, the 5th U.S. president, also died on July 4th.

1863 – Vicksburg surrenders (American Civil War)

Confederate forces surrendered Vicksburg, Mississippi, to Union General Ulysses S. Grant, marking a major turning point in the war.

1881 – Tuskegee Institute opens

Booker T. Washington opened the Tuskegee Institute in Alabama to train Black teachers and professionals.

1884 – France presents the Statue of Liberty

The French completed construction of the Statue of Liberty in Paris, offering it as a gift to the United States. It was later shipped and assembled in New York.

1910 – Jack Johnson defeats Jim Jeffries

Boxer Jack Johnson, the first African American world heavyweight champion, defeated Jim Jeffries in Reno, Nevada, in a racially charged match.

1946 – Philippines Independence The U.S. formally recognized the independence of the Philippines after WWII.

1960 – New U.S. flag with 50 stars debuted

The 50-star flag (for Hawaii’s admission) was officially flown for the first time.

1997 – Mars Pathfinder lands

NASA's Mars Pathfinder successfully landed on Mars, deploying the Sojourner rover.

COMING UP

Today: EU’s António Costa and Ursula von der Leyen attend a summit on EU–Moldova relations in Chișinău.
Saturday: The Tour de France begins in Lille.
Sunday: The BRICS summit opens in Brazil.
On July 10th: The British and French-led "coalition of the willing" is set to meet in the U.K.