Trump threatens to use Insurrection Act against Minneapolis protests
President Trump threatened to invoke the Insurrection Act to suppress protests in Minneapolis following the fatal shooting of a protester by ICE agents. The act allows military deployment for law enforcement, which would represent a significant expansion of federal power. Legal experts note this would be a departure from historical precedent and likely face court challenges.
Sources: AP News, NPR
Iran protests face deadly crackdown amid internet blackout
Iranian authorities have implemented a near-total internet shutdown while cracking down on widespread anti-government protests, with activists reporting over 2,600 deaths. Starlink satellite internet is helping some Iranians maintain connections despite government attempts to block it. The UN Security Council held an emergency meeting as global pressure mounts on Iran's government.
Sources: AP News, NPR
Venezuela's opposition leader meets with Trump at White House
Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado met with President Trump at the White House and presented him with her Nobel Peace Prize. The meeting signals potential shifts in US-Venezuela relations as Venezuela's acting president adapts to post-Maduro reality. Meanwhile, the US seized another sanctioned tanker with ties to Venezuela as part of Trump's effort to control its oil.
Sources: AP News
Major Verizon outage affects millions of customers
Verizon experienced a massive nationwide outage leaving tens of millions of customers without cell service for much of a day. The company attributed the problem to a software issue and is conducting a full review. Experts warn that such outages are becoming more common as telecom networks shift to cloud-based systems with increased complexity.
Sources: NPR
Trump administration cuts then restores $2 billion in mental health grants
The Trump administration abruptly terminated then restored $2 billion in federal grants for mental health and addiction programs after bipartisan pressure from Congress. The 24-hour funding chaos created uncertainty for thousands of organizations providing essential safety net services. Public health experts expressed concern about decision-making processes within the administration.
Sources: NPR
NCAA basketball betting scandal involves players allegedly rigging games
A scheme to rig college basketball games has been uncovered, with NCAA basketball players and gamblers charged for allegedly manipulating games. The investigation reveals key facts about the latest betting scandal to hit college sports. This follows growing concerns about sports gambling's impact on amateur athletics.
Sources: AP News
Trump outlines healthcare plan while ACA premiums skyrocket
President Trump announced a healthcare plan framework that doesn't address skyrocketing ACA premiums affecting millions. The plan focuses on drug price reforms, insurance changes, price transparency, and fraud protections. Meanwhile, bipartisan Senate negotiations continue on extending ACA subsidies as open enrollment ends.
Sources: NPR
US and Taiwan sign $250 billion trade deal
The United States and Taiwan signed a $250 billion trade deal that cuts tariffs on Taiwanese goods. This significant economic agreement comes amid ongoing tensions with China, which considers Taiwan part of its territory. The deal represents a major strengthening of US-Taiwan economic relations.
Sources: AP News
Starlink enables internet access in Iran despite government crackdown
Starlink satellite internet is playing a crucial role in connecting Iran with the outside world despite government attempts to impose a total internet blackout. Activists estimate about 50,000 Starlink units are in Iran, with SpaceX reportedly making access free. The technology has become vital for documenting human rights abuses during protests.
Sources: NPR
Pakistan activist challenges luxury tax on menstrual products
A Pakistani activist has filed a lawsuit challenging the classification of menstrual products as luxury goods subject to 40% taxes. Only about one in ten girls and women in Pakistan use commercially manufactured period products due to cost and stigma. The lawsuit aims to reclassify these as essential goods to improve accessibility and affordability.
Sources: NPR