The U.S. State Department clarified that upcoming talks with Iran are not negotiations over its nuclear program. Spokeswoman Tammy Bruce emphasized the meeting is not a negotiation, reiterating President Trump’s stance against Iran obtaining nuclear weapons. Despite this, both Bruce and White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt noted Trump’s interest in striking a deal with Iran, highlighting reimposed sanctions. Special envoy Steve Witkoff will represent the U.S. in the talks, with few details disclosed. Trump mentioned ongoing direct diplomacy with Iran since exiting the 2018 nuclear deal. Noah Prescott 09/04/2025 5:00 am
A roof collapse at the Jet Set nightclub in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, during a concert by merengue singer Rubby Pérez, killed at least 44 and injured 160. A search-and-rescue operation is ongoing. President Luis Abinader expressed condolences and confirmed relief efforts. Among the deceased was Montecristi Gov. Nelsy Milagros Cruz Martinez, sister of former MLB star Nelson Cruz. Families gathered at the scene seeking loved ones. Ava Sinclair 09/04/2025 1:30 am
Maj. Oleh Shyriaiev encountered North Korean troops near Kruglenkoe, close to the Ukrainian border in Kursk, a key war zone. Ukraine’s counteroffensive in August led to significant losses on both sides. In late 2024, Russia deployed North Korean troops to bolster its efforts. Shyriaiev’s unit effectively countered an assault by creating a minefield. Despite harsh conditions, North Korean units became Russia’s elite force, committed to dislodging Ukrainian troops. However, Russian forces struggled for months, suffering heavy losses, with North Korean troops noted for their refusal to surrender. Penelope Kingsley 09/04/2025 1:30 am
Iran approaches upcoming nuclear talks with the U.S. cautiously, doubting progress and suspecting U.S. intentions. Announced by President Trump, the talks are set for Saturday in Oman. Trump favors direct talks, but Iran insists on indirect negotiations due to perceived U.S. pressure. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi and U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff will lead the discussions, mediated by Oman’s Foreign Minister Badr al-Busaidi. Penelope Kingsley 09/04/2025 1:30 am
Thousands of migrants who entered the US using the CBP One app during the Biden administration are being told to leave immediately as their paroles are revoked. Approximately 900,000 migrants were allowed to stay for two years with work authorization. The Trump administration, which renamed the app to CBP Home, is now using it for “self-deportations.” Notices warn migrants of potential prosecution if they remain. The Department of Homeland Security claims this action addresses border security issues. Exceptions apply to certain Ukrainian and Afghan parole programs. Penelope Kingsley 08/04/2025 10:00 pm
Ukrainian President Zelenskiy announced the capture of two Chinese men fighting for Russia in eastern Ukraine, raising concerns about China’s involvement in the conflict. While Beijing is a close ally of Moscow, it hasn’t been publicly known to support Russia’s invasion. Zelenskiy suggested more Chinese citizens might be involved but didn’t confirm if they acted on Beijing’s orders. The Chinese Foreign Ministry hasn’t commented, and Reuters couldn’t verify the claims. This development complicates the peace efforts in the ongoing war. Penelope Kingsley 08/04/2025 10:00 pm
Prince Harry’s attorney argued in court that he was treated unfairly when his British security detail was removed after stepping down as a working royal. A High Court judge previously ruled that the decision to provide security on an as-needed basis was lawful. However, Harry’s lawyer claimed the evaluation process was flawed and resulted in unjustified treatment. Harry, who rarely appears in court, attended the hearing, highlighting its importance to him. He has expressed concerns about his family’s safety due to media hostility and previously lost a case to privately fund police protection in the UK. Penelope Kingsley 08/04/2025 10:00 pm
Octavio Dotel, a former MLB pitcher for 15 seasons, died at 51 after a nightclub roof collapse in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. The incident killed at least 44 and injured over 130 during a performance by merengue singer Rubby Perez. Dotel, who played for 13 teams, was known for his time with the Houston Astros and his role in a historic no-hitter against the Yankees. He won a World Series with the 2011 St. Louis Cardinals and returned to the World Series with the Detroit Tigers in 2012. The Mets honored him with a moment of silence. Noah Prescott 08/04/2025 10:00 pm
Russia is nearing full control of the Kursk region after pushing Ukrainian forces from key areas, including the settlement of Guyevo. The Russian Defence Ministry released footage of the recapture, though Reuters could not verify the date. Russia has been reclaiming territory in Kursk and advancing into Ukraine’s Sumy region. Kursk’s governor, Alexander Khinshtein, stated that only two settlements remain under Ukrainian control. Ukraine’s DeepState map shows reduced Ukrainian-held territory in Kursk. Ukrainian President Zelenskiy confirmed Ukrainian activity in Russia’s Belgorod region to protect Sumy and Kharkiv. Penelope Kingsley 08/04/2025 6:30 pm
Ukrainian forces captured two Chinese nationals fighting for Russia in Donetsk, raising concerns about China’s involvement in the conflict. President Zelensky suggested more Chinese soldiers might be in Russia’s army. Ukraine’s Foreign Minister summoned China’s envoy for an explanation, questioning China’s peace stance. This marks the first official claim of China supplying manpower to Russia. Zelensky called for global responses, while an investigation is ongoing. The incident challenges China’s credibility as a UN Security Council member. Ava Sinclair 08/04/2025 6:30 pm
