Kiev’s backers don’t want the conflict settled – Putin

The Wall Street Journal uncovered a personal note Bill Clinton wrote for Jeffrey Epstein’s 50th birthday, adding another layer to the scrutiny over their relationship. While the content of the note isn’t detailed, its existence raises eyebrows given Epstein’s later conviction for sex trafficking and the ongoing questions about high-profile connections to him.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just about a birthday card—it’s another piece in the larger, unsettling puzzle of Epstein’s elite social circle. Clinton’s association with Epstein has been questioned before, and this revelation keeps that conversation alive, especially for those tracking how power and influence intersected with Epstein’s crimes. It’s a reminder that these ties, however casual they might seem, don’t fade easily.

Spain and England are set to face off again in a high-stakes football match, stirring up mixed emotions for Spanish fans. While some remember past victories fondly, others can't shake the sting of painful defeats—especially the 2018 World Cup clash where Spain lost on penalties. This rematch isn’t just about tactics; it’s layered with history, pride, and a shot at redemption.

Editor’s Note: Rivalries in sports aren’t just about the game—they’re about the stories, grudges, and drama that fans carry for years. This match isn’t just another fixture; it’s a chance for Spain to rewrite old narratives or for England to deepen the wound. For fans, it’s emotional fuel.

Today's live news covers two starkly different stories: Israel faces international criticism over civilian casualties, with a PM stating these deaths "cannot be defended or ignored," while Trump shifts focus to trade, boasting the US will sell "so much" beef to Australia. Meanwhile, Independent MP Allegra Spender is set to make headlines with an upcoming announcement.

Editor’s Note: The juxtaposition of these stories highlights the uneven global news cycle—where grave humanitarian concerns collide with economic posturing. Israel’s actions remain under intense scrutiny, while Trump’s trade remarks, though lighter, underscore how political narratives can pivot abruptly. Spender’s pending move adds a local twist, reminding us that politics never sleeps.

The US and Israel are pushing back hard against France’s decision to recognize a Palestinian state, calling it a "reckless" move that plays into Hamas’s hands. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio didn’t mince words, slamming the move as propaganda fuel for the militant group.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just another diplomatic spat—it’s a flashpoint in the long-running debate over Palestinian statehood. France’s stance could embolden other nations to follow suit, further isolating Israel and complicating US-led peace efforts. Rubio’s sharp criticism signals how charged this issue is, especially with tensions still high from the Gaza war.

Fortescue, the mining giant led by Andrew Forrest, has scrapped two major green hydrogen projects, blaming the Trump administration's rollback of renewable energy support. The company says the sudden lack of policy certainty and weakened green energy goals made these once-viable projects too risky to continue.

Editor’s Note: This isn't just about one company—it's a warning sign for the green energy transition. When governments backtrack on climate commitments, big investments dry up, slowing down progress toward cleaner energy. Fortescue's move shows how political shifts can have real-world consequences for ambitious climate projects.