Formula One: United States Grand Prix – live updates

Max Verstappen has secured pole position for the US Grand Prix after a thrilling sprint race at the Circuit of the Americas, where he showcased his driving prowess. This victory not only boosts Verstappen's confidence but also intensifies the competition with fellow drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, who faced a collision during the race. The incident highlights the fierce rivalry in the championship, making the upcoming race even more exciting for fans and adding pressure on the McLaren team.

The US Grand Prix qualifying is underway after Max Verstappen's victory in the sprint race, which has set the stage for an exciting weekend. The qualifying format will see 20 cars compete in three sessions, with the first two eliminating ten drivers before the final shootout for pole position. However, there were some concerns during the sprint qualifying about slower cars interfering with faster ones, which could impact the results. This event is crucial as it not only determines the starting grid for the main race but also showcases the competitive spirit of the teams and drivers.

Faculty at the University of Texas at Austin are expressing deep concerns over a newly appointed taskforce that may lead to significant cuts in liberal arts departments. While the university has not officially announced any restructuring plans, the uncertainty is causing anxiety among educators who fear that vital humanities programs could be eliminated. This situation matters because it highlights the ongoing debate about the value of liberal arts education in a time when many institutions are prioritizing STEM fields, potentially undermining the diversity of academic offerings.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has returned from the US without securing the long-range Tomahawk cruise missiles he sought, urging allies not to appease Russia. His call for a European-led coalition highlights the ongoing tensions and the need for stronger support against Russian aggression. This situation is critical as it underscores the challenges Ukraine faces in its defense efforts and the importance of international solidarity.

Tensions are escalating in Gaza as Israel conducts deadly airstrikes in response to an attack by Hamas that resulted in the deaths of two Israeli soldiers. This military action has raised serious concerns about the fragile ceasefire that both sides claim to support. The situation is critical as Israel has also halted all aid to Gaza, which could worsen the humanitarian crisis in the region. The developments highlight the precarious nature of peace efforts and the potential for further violence, making it a significant issue for both local and international observers.

In a controversial statement, U.S. President Donald Trump suggested that Ukraine might need to concede territory to Russia to achieve peace, following over three years of conflict. This remark raises significant concerns about the implications for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity, as many fear that such concessions could embolden further aggression from Russia.

The World Health Organization has announced that the last Ebola patient in the Democratic Republic of Congo has been discharged, marking a significant milestone in the fight against the virus. This recovery initiates a 42-day countdown to officially declaring the country's 16th outbreak over, which is crucial for public health and safety. It highlights the effectiveness of health interventions and the resilience of the local healthcare system.

Senator Tim Kaine is leading a bipartisan initiative urging Congress to reclaim its war powers regarding potential military actions in Venezuela. This effort is significant as it seeks to prevent unilateral decisions that could escalate tensions in the region, emphasizing the importance of legislative oversight in matters of war and peace.

Virginia Giuffre's posthumous memoir, set to be published soon, reveals her harrowing experiences and fears of being trapped as a sex slave by Jeffrey Epstein and his associates. This memoir is significant as it sheds light on the dark realities of sex trafficking and the abuse of power, highlighting the importance of speaking out against such injustices.