Russian President Vladimir Putin announced readiness for renewed peace talks with Ukraine during a visit to Belarus, despite ongoing drone warfare and missile attacks. Putin stated that potential ceasefire terms may now be discussed, although he insists a summit with Zelenskyy can only follow a detailed peace agreement. Meanwhile, Ukraine halted Russia’s advance in the Sumy region and intercepted hundreds of incoming drones. Both nations continue to weaponize long-range drones, turning the war into a high-tech battleground. International ceasefire efforts remain stalled, with limited outcomes beyond prisoner exchanges.
IRAN HOLDS STATE FUNERAL
A massive state funeral was held in Tehran for IRGC Chief General Hossein Salami, General Amir Ali Hajizadeh, and other top military and nuclear figures killed in the 12-day conflict with Israel. Over a million mourners reportedly joined the funeral procession through Azadi Street, chanting anti-US and anti-Israel slogans. The deceased included 60 individuals, among them four women and four children. The war erupted on June 13 with Israeli airstrikes targeting Iran’s nuclear program, which Tehran maintains is for civilian use. A US-brokered ceasefire was declared after escalating attacks from both sides.
GERMANY ENDS RESCUE FUNDING
Germany has ended state funding for NGOs conducting sea rescues of migrants in the Mediterranean, redirecting aid to crisis zones like Sudan. Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul stated that sea rescues are not the foreign office’s responsibility. Organizations like Sea-Eye, which relied on German funds, say this move could halt life-saving missions. The decision comes amid rising anti-immigration sentiment and a push by Chancellor Merz’s conservative government to curb irregular migration. Critics, including the opposition Greens, warn the move will worsen the humanitarian crisis and lead to preventable deaths at sea.
DR CONGO, RWANDA SIGN PEACE DEAL
The Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda signed a US-brokered peace agreement in Washington, aiming to end decades of conflict in mineral-rich eastern DRC. The accord promises respect for territorial borders, disarmament of non-state armed groups, and the return of refugees. President Trump hailed the deal as a “new chapter” for the region. However, doubts remain, as rebel group M23—accused of atrocities and alleged Rwandan support—was not involved in the negotiations. Observers warn that while this agreement is a breakthrough, challenges around implementation and resource exploitation still threaten long-term peace.
TRUMP WARNS INDIA ON TRADE COSTS
US President Donald Trump announced that India and several other countries will soon receive notifications outlining what they must pay to continue trade with the US. This comes ahead of his self-declared July 9 “Liberation Day” tariffs deadline. Trump emphasized that his administration cannot negotiate with hundreds of nations individually and will instead issue set terms. While he hinted at progress with China and future trade with India, Indian officials report stalled negotiations. Meanwhile, Trump abruptly ended trade talks with Canada over its new digital services tax targeting American tech firms.
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