Lavrov and Rubio discuss Putin-Trump summit, Zelensky seeks invite

The White House has started demolishing part of its East Wing to make way for President Trump's new ballroom, raising concerns as this action is being taken without the necessary approval from the federal agency responsible for overseeing such projects. This move has sparked debate about the implications of bypassing regulatory processes, highlighting tensions between the administration and federal oversight.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy described his recent meeting with former President Donald Trump as 'positive,' despite Trump's unchanged stance on Russia's demands regarding Ukraine's eastern regions. This meeting is significant as it highlights ongoing diplomatic efforts and the complexities of international relations, especially in the context of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

In a recent live news update, Australia's Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong commented on Donald Trump's remarks to the Australian US ambassador, describing them as 'clearly tongue-in-cheek.' This exchange comes amid ongoing discussions about the diplomatic relationship between Australia and the United States, highlighting the complexities of international relations. Wong also addressed the challenges facing former Prime Minister Kevin Rudd's position, suggesting it may not be tenable. This situation is significant as it reflects the evolving dynamics of diplomacy and the importance of maintaining strong ties between nations.

In a significant development, John Healey has expressed that Europe is prepared to deploy troops to Ukraine if a ceasefire is successfully negotiated by Trump and Putin in Hungary. This readiness signals a proactive approach to ensuring stability in the region, highlighting the importance of diplomatic efforts in resolving ongoing conflicts. The potential for a ceasefire could pave the way for peace and security in Ukraine, making this a crucial moment for international relations.

A US appeals court has ruled that President Donald Trump can send National Guard troops to Portland, despite opposition from Oregon. This decision highlights the ongoing tensions between the federal government and liberal states, which view Trump's actions as an authoritarian overreach. The deployment of troops in response to political and social unrest raises concerns about civil liberties and the balance of power, making this a significant moment in the current political climate.

Construction has reportedly begun on a controversial renovation of the East Wing of the White House, where Donald Trump plans to build a $250 million ballroom. This move has sparked significant backlash, with critics labeling the project as an 'utter desecration' of a historic site. The demolition has raised concerns about the preservation of the White House's integrity and has ignited a heated debate on social media, highlighting the tensions surrounding Trump's legacy and his approach to historical landmarks.

UK Defence Secretary John Healey announced that the cost for Britain's contribution to a potential peacekeeping force in Ukraine would exceed £100 million. This comes as he prepares for a swift deployment of a multinational force, led by the UK and France, should a ceasefire be agreed upon. This initiative is significant as it highlights the UK's commitment to stabilizing Ukraine amidst ongoing conflict, and the financial implications underscore the seriousness of the situation.

The US has taken a stand against a European Union initiative that aims to use frozen Russian assets to secure a significant loan for Ukraine. This decision highlights the complexities of international financial support amid ongoing geopolitical tensions. By opposing this scheme, the US is signaling its reluctance to engage in measures that could further escalate tensions with Russia, which is crucial for maintaining diplomatic relations and stability in the region.

In a recent live news update, Australia's Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong commented on Donald Trump's remarks to the Australian US ambassador, suggesting they were made in jest. This exchange highlights the ongoing complexities in Australia-US relations, especially in light of recent political changes. Wong's assertion that Kevin Rudd's position is not tenable adds another layer to the diplomatic discourse, indicating potential shifts in leadership and policy direction. Understanding these dynamics is crucial as they can impact international cooperation and trade.

The ongoing government shutdown in the U.S. has reached a critical point as the Senate's eleventh vote to pass a funding resolution has failed, resulting in a 50-43 tally. This deadlock highlights the deep divisions within Congress, particularly among Democrats, and raises concerns about the impact on government services and employees. As one of the longest shutdowns in U.S. history, it underscores the urgent need for bipartisan cooperation to resolve the funding crisis and prevent further disruptions.

Maccabi Tel Aviv has announced that they will not accept any ticket allocation from Aston Villa, even if the ban on their supporters for the upcoming Europa League match is lifted. This decision highlights the ongoing tensions between the clubs and raises questions about fan engagement and safety in international competitions.

A US Boeing 737 MAX 8 was reportedly struck by an unidentified object, raising concerns that it may have originated from space. This incident highlights the ongoing discussions about the potential risks posed by space debris to commercial aviation. As air travel continues to grow, understanding and mitigating these risks becomes increasingly important for passenger safety.

A tragic incident occurred at Hong Kong's airport when a cargo plane skidded off the runway after colliding with a security vehicle, resulting in the deaths of two individuals. This event raises serious concerns about airport safety protocols and the need for thorough investigations to prevent future accidents. The implications of such incidents can affect not only the families involved but also the broader aviation industry and public confidence in air travel.

The White House has started the demolition of a section of the East Wing, removing a large covered entryway and windows to create a new event space for Trump. This development is significant as it reflects ongoing changes to the iconic building, which may impact future events and the overall aesthetic of the White House.