The U.S. Senate has passed President Donald Trump’s massive domestic agenda bill following a tense, all-night voting session. The multi-trillion-dollar package includes sweeping tax cuts and increased national security spending, but also slashes federal safety net programs, marking the largest such cuts in decades. GOP leaders are now pushing to pass the bill through the House before July 4, aiming to deliver it to Trump’s desk quickly. Meanwhile, Trump toured “Alligator Alcatraz,” a controversial Florida detention facility, with Governor Ron DeSantis, highlighting the bill’s immigration enforcement provisions as part of his broader political strategy.
TRUMP THREATENS MUSK
U.S. President Donald Trump has threatened to cut billions in federal subsidies for Elon Musk’s companies, Tesla and SpaceX, amid rising tensions over a controversial tax-cut bill. The fallout intensified after Musk criticized the bill and floated the idea of forming a new political party. Trump accused Musk of benefiting excessively from government support and hinted at halting EV and space contracts. Tesla shares dropped nearly 5% as sales declined globally. The rift threatens Musk’s robotaxi ambitions, which rely heavily on federal policy. Republicans fear the feud could affect their 2026 election prospects.
IRAN RULES OUT NUCLEAR TALKS
Iran has dismissed any swift return to nuclear negotiations with the U.S., following American airstrikes on its nuclear facilities during a 12-day conflict with Israel. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Tehran would not rejoin talks under threat, despite President Trump’s optimism about a quick resumption. He called Iran’s uranium enrichment a symbol of national pride, refusing to halt the program. Araghchi insisted that knowledge and infrastructure could be quickly restored. While the U.S. warned of more strikes if enrichment continues, Iran signaled readiness for conflict, reaffirming its stance on sovereignty and deterrence.
ISRAEL, U.S. TALK CEASEFIRE
Israeli Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer is in Washington to hold ceasefire talks as Israel intensifies military strikes across Gaza. Over 112 Palestinians were killed in 24 hours, with widespread destruction in Gaza City, Khan Younis, and Rafah. Thousands have been displaced again as evacuation orders expand. Prime Minister Netanyahu is expected to meet President Trump on July 7 to discuss Gaza, Iran, and regional tensions. Hamas has indicated openness to a ceasefire deal, but insists hostages will be released only under a full war-ending agreement. Truce talks remain stalled despite mediation by Qatar and Egypt.
RUSSIA CLAIMS LUHANSK
Russia has claimed full control of Ukraine’s eastern Luhansk region, marking the first Ukrainian territory to fall completely under Russian rule since the 2014 annexation of Crimea. Leonid Pasechnik, the Russian-installed head of the so-called Luhansk People’s Republic, announced the “100% liberation” on Russian state TV. Kyiv has rejected the claim, calling it illegal and vowing never to recognize Russian sovereignty. Russia now controls nearly 19% of internationally recognized Ukrainian territory. The development signals a major strategic and symbolic gain for Moscow amid the prolonged war, deepening the geopolitical and humanitarian crisis in the region.
