The Baltic states—Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania—disconnected from Russia’s power grid to join the EU’s network, a move accelerated by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. This shift aims to prevent Russian geopolitical leverage via energy control. Lithuania’s Energy Minister hailed the transition as a historic moment, marking the end of Russian influence over their electricity systems. The switch to the EU grid is seen as a victory for freedom and unity. Celebrations are planned, and Latvia will cut a power line to Russia, with EU leaders attending a ceremony in Vilnius.

Penelope Kingsley 08/02/2025 8:30 pm

Ukrainian President Zelenskyy announced a new offensive in Russia’s Kursk region, claiming North Korean troops are fighting with Russian forces. He reported significant enemy losses but provided no specifics. Russia’s Defense Ministry stated it repelled the attack and captured Toretsk in Donetsk, though Ukraine hasn’t confirmed this. South Korea suspects North Korea plans to send more troops to Russia. Meanwhile, a Ukrainian strike in Makiivka killed one and injured ten, and Russia reported shooting down 36 Ukrainian drones, causing damage in Rostov-on-Don.

Ava Sinclair 08/02/2025 8:30 pm

At a Madrid gathering, far-right European leaders praised Donald Trump’s influence, rallying under “Make Europe Great Again.” Key figures included Viktor Orban, Matteo Salvini, Marine Le Pen, and Geert Wilders. They criticized immigration and called for a “Reconquista.” The event, disrupted by a Femen protester, targeted “wokism,” migrant NGOs, and EU leaders. Patriots for Europe, formed post-2024 elections, chose Madrid for its first summit, hosted by Vox’s Santiago Abascal. Spain’s Socialist Party condemned the event, while Vox gains support among young men and military personnel.

Penelope Kingsley 08/02/2025 5:00 pm

Three Israeli civilians, abducted during the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led attack, were released by militants in poor condition, sparking outrage in Israel. Their emaciated state contrasted with previous hostages’ releases. Israel also released 183 Palestinian prisoners, many appearing weak. The Red Cross expressed concern over the conditions of these exchanges, urging dignified and private releases. Allegations of abuse in Israeli custody have emerged. An Israeli Health Ministry official highlighted severe malnutrition among the released hostages, vowing not to remain silent about their treatment.

Ava Sinclair 08/02/2025 5:00 pm

In Dearborn, Michigan, Lebanese American retirees express mixed feelings about supporting Trump, who they helped win the state. Initially drawn by his promises to end the Gaza conflict, they now feel misled by his controversial comments about turning Gaza into a “Riviera” and displacing Palestinians. While some view his remarks as a negotiating tactic, others feel deceived. Despite dissatisfaction with his Middle East policy, some still credit Trump for the ceasefire and believe his election expedited peace efforts. This sentiment could impact future Republican success in Michigan.

Penelope Kingsley 08/02/2025 5:00 pm

Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania are disconnecting from Russia’s electricity grid to join the EU’s network, a process starting Saturday. Residents were advised to prepare for potential disruptions. The transition marks the end of their reliance on the Brell power grid, controlled by Moscow, which has been a vulnerability. The move is seen as a step to reduce energy dependence and geopolitical risks. The transition will culminate in a ceremony in Lithuania, attended by EU chief Ursula von der Leyen. Tensions with Russia have increased since its invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

Penelope Kingsley 08/02/2025 5:00 pm

A landslide in Jinping village, Sichuan, China, has left at least 30 people missing, burying 10 houses. Two people were rescued. President Xi Jinping ordered an “all-out” rescue effort, with hundreds of emergency workers searching for survivors. Premier Li Qiang called for an investigation into geological risks and evacuation of threatened residents. Fifty million yuan has been allocated for infrastructure repairs. The region is prone to landslides, with past incidents causing significant casualties.

Noah Prescott 08/02/2025 5:00 pm

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) won the most seats in New Delhi’s state legislature election, securing 40 out of 70 seats and ending the Aam Aadmi Party’s (AAP) rule since 2015. AAP’s founder Arvind Kejriwal and deputy Manish Sisodia lost their seats. The BJP’s victory is seen as a boost after previous electoral challenges. Over 60% of eligible voters participated. Modi’s party had promised tax cuts and welfare initiatives. Kejriwal was previously arrested on bribery charges, which he claims are politically motivated.

Penelope Kingsley 08/02/2025 1:30 pm

The crisis in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is driven by the M23 rebels’ seizure of land in the mineral-rich east, sparking humanitarian and diplomatic issues. Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi aims to reclaim lost territories and accuses Rwandan President Paul Kagame of supporting M23 to exploit DRC’s resources. Despite evidence and international demands for Rwanda to withdraw, no concrete actions have been taken. Tshisekedi’s political survival is at risk, with fears of internal opposition or a military coup due to the ongoing conflict.

Ava Sinclair 08/02/2025 1:30 pm

For two weeks, America’s allies refrained from criticizing President Trump, but his proposal to take Gaza under U.S. control and relocate its Palestinian population shattered this silence. The idea diverged sharply from the long-standing two-state solution, prompting widespread rejection from global leaders. America’s regional allies expressed disbelief and concern over its impact on ongoing diplomatic efforts, while European leaders clearly opposed the plan. Criticizing the U.S. early in Trump’s term is risky for many leaders, leaving them in a difficult position. Jon B. Alterman noted allies were “gobsmacked” by the proposal.

Noah Prescott 08/02/2025 1:30 pm