Russia Launches Extensive Attacks on Ukraine; US Imposes Tariffs on Japan, South Korea
Key Takeaways
- Russia launched over 1,270 drones/missiles on Ukraine, killing 10+ and causing widespread damage.
- US imposes 25% tariffs on Japan, South Korea, Tunisia starting August 1.
- Federal courts block Trump's Medicaid cuts to Planned Parenthood, citing constitutional rights violations.
- Texas floods kill 104, leave 41 missing; investigation called for weather service staffing cuts.
- CoreWeave acquires Core Scientific for $9B; Platinum Asset Management merges with L1 Capital.
Top Stories
Russia launches extensive drone and missile attacks on Ukraine causing civilian casualties and infrastructure damage
On July 6-7, 2025, Russia launched over 1,270 drones, missiles, and glide bombs targeting Ukrainian civilians and military sites, killing at least 10 and injuring dozens. The attacks caused widespread damage in regions including Sumy, Kharkiv, and Donetsk amid ongoing conflict escalation.
Trump administration imposes and extends 25% tariffs on Japan, South Korea, and others starting August 1
On July 7-8, 2025, the US announced and extended tariffs of 25% on imports from Japan, South Korea, and Tunisia effective August 1, prompting trade negotiations and market reactions. Retailers accelerated sales and stockpiling ahead of tariff implementation amid concerns over inflation and global economic impact.
Federal courts temporarily block Trump administration's Medicaid funding cuts to Planned Parenthood
On July 7-8, 2025, federal judges issued temporary restraining orders preventing Medicaid funding cuts to Planned Parenthood, citing constitutional rights violations. The policy would have removed funding for abortion-providing health centers, sparking legal challenges and public health concerns.
Texas floods cause over 100 deaths amid political disputes over weather service staffing cuts
Starting July 4, 2025, devastating floods in Texas killed at least 104 people and left 41 missing, triggering calls for investigation into National Weather Service staffing cuts under the Trump administration. Political parties clashed over accountability and disaster response.
CoreWeave acquires Core Scientific for $9B; Platinum Asset Management merges with L1 Capital
On July 7-8, 2025, CoreWeave agreed to acquire Core Scientific for $9 billion to expand AI infrastructure, while Platinum Asset Management announced a merger with L1 Capital creating a $16.5 billion fund manager. Both deals impact technology and finance sectors.
Business Today
Amazon Prime Day 2025 runs July 7-11 with early sales and consumer price warnings
Amazon's Prime Day 2025 from July 7-11 features extended sales and early promotions amid tariff concerns. Consumers are advised to use tools like Keepa to detect price inflation and find genuine discounts.
Entertainment Scene
Review of 'Frontline' film depicting COVID-19 outbreak response on Yokohama cruise ship
The movie 'Frontline,' reviewed in July 2025, portrays the courageous efforts of medical teams managing a COVID-19 outbreak on a Yokohama cruise ship, highlighting pandemic challenges and heroism.
Financial Watch
Watchdog flagged Wood Group accounts since 2017 amid union claims on grid maintenance incentives
On July 6, 2025, reports revealed Wood Group's financial accounts were flagged by regulators since 2017, while unions claim grid companies are disincentivized from maintaining plants, raising concerns over energy infrastructure.
Global Watch
Eastern China faces deadly heatwave with temperatures over 40°C and record electricity demand
In early July 2025, eastern China experienced a severe heatwave exceeding 40°C, causing heatstroke deaths and record electricity usage of 1.47 billion kilowatts. The event highlights climate challenges and public health risks.
Five European nations plan to resume banned antipersonnel landmine use amid Russian threat
In July 2025, Poland, the Baltic States, and Finland announced plans to quit the 1999 Mine Ban Treaty and revive antipersonnel landmine use to bolster defenses against Russia, sparking international criticism.
In Focus
Insights on US politics, EU leadership challenges, mental health, and cultural reflections in July 2025
Recent analyses cover Trump's 2024 election strategy, BBC funding debates, EU Commission no-confidence vote, youth mental health stigma, UK school reforms, and cultural commentary including Ukraine peace cartoons and celebrity trials. These reflect ongoing political, social, and cultural dynamics.
Inquiries & Justice
UK inquiries open on 2024 school stabbing and Post Office Horizon scandal focusing on human impact
On July 8, 2025, the Southport Inquiry began investigating a 2024 stabbing killing three schoolgirls, while the Post Office Horizon inquiry released its first report on wrongful prosecutions and compensation. Both focus on preventing future tragedies and addressing victims' needs.