US senator plans trip to Taiwan as Trump’s interest in island cools: Report

French President Emmanuel Macron claims the European Union lacks sufficient global influence, criticizing a recent EU-US trade deal as evidence of the bloc's weak negotiating power. He suggests the EU needs to assert itself more strongly on the world stage.

Editor’s Note: Macron’s comments highlight growing tensions within the EU over its role in global trade and politics. If Europe’s leaders feel the bloc isn’t commanding enough respect, it could signal a push for more aggressive policies—something that might reshape international relations and economic deals.

Apple is facing a tough quarter as Wall Street prepares to dig into its challenges in China and slower-than-expected AI advancements. Despite a 4% revenue bump, the company’s stock has dropped significantly this year, it just closed a store in China for the first time, and looming U.S. tariffs could add more pressure. Meanwhile, rivals are pulling ahead in the AI race, leaving Apple playing catch-up.

Editor’s Note: Apple’s struggles in China and AI delays aren’t just niche tech problems—they could signal bigger issues for a company that’s long been a market leader. With China being a massive market and AI defining the next tech era, investors are watching closely to see if Apple can bounce back or if this is the start of a longer slump.

Panama's comptroller general has filed two lawsuits in the country's supreme court against the owners of two ports entangled in a geopolitical tug-of-war between the US and China. This comes after a failed attempt to sell the ports to a consortium, and the move is seen as a win for former US President Donald Trump's efforts to reduce Chinese influence over the Panama Canal.

Editor’s Note: This story highlights how global power struggles between the US and China are playing out in smaller countries like Panama, where control over key infrastructure—like ports near the Panama Canal—has major strategic importance. The legal action could shift the balance of influence in a region critical to global trade.

A recent wave of Russian strikes on Kyiv has killed at least 16 people, including a young boy and his mother, marking one of the deadliest attacks on children since the war began. The escalation comes despite former U.S. President Donald Trump's public call for a ceasefire.

Editor’s Note: This story highlights the ongoing brutality of the war in Ukraine, with civilians—especially children—paying a heavy price. The timing also underscores the ineffectiveness of political demands (like Trump's) in halting the violence, raising questions about the future of diplomatic efforts. It's a grim reminder of how the conflict continues to devastate families and test global resolve.

The White House is reinforcing its stance that recognizing Palestine as a state would be a "reward" for Hamas, as press secretary Karoline Leavitt highlights disagreements between Trump and leaders of the UK, France, and Canada. Meanwhile, a US envoy is in Israel for ceasefire talks. Trump's schedule includes a lunch with VP JD Vance and an executive order signing later in the day.

Editor’s Note: This story matters because it underscores the deepening divide between the US and some of its closest allies over how to handle the Israel-Palestine conflict. The White House's hardline stance could complicate ceasefire efforts and further strain international diplomacy. Plus, with Trump's involvement, it signals how domestic politics may shape foreign policy decisions.