Is Queens the new political belleweather of America? | Michael Massing

A Georgia judge has dismissed the last remaining criminal case against Donald Trump, which accused him of attempting to overturn the 2020 election results. This ruling effectively closes a significant chapter in the legal challenges Trump faced following the election, as prosecutors argued that the investigation should have been handled at the federal level.

Russia's Kremlin spokesman stated that discussions aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict in Ukraine are serious, but emphasized that no concessions will be made. This statement comes as U.S. President Donald Trump advocates for an end to the war, indicating ongoing diplomatic efforts.

Two US National Guard troops were injured in a shooting incident in Washington, DC, prompting police to take one suspect into custody. The shooting has raised concerns about safety in the capital, especially given the heightened tensions surrounding military presence in urban areas.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced new support measures for the lumber and steel sectors as the steel industry faces significant challenges following the imposition of 50% tariffs on Canadian steel by U.S. President Donald Trump in June. This initiative aims to provide financial assistance to affected industries and impose stricter quotas on foreign steel imports.

The state prosecutor in Georgia has officially dismissed the charges against Donald Trump and his co-defendants in the election interference case, marking the end of this legal battle. The dismissal was confirmed by Pete Skandalakis, who took over the case after Fani Willis was removed as Fulton County District Attorney. Superior Court Judge Scott McAfee issued a one-page order to finalize the dismissal of the 2020 racketeering case.

A leaked recording has revealed that U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff advised a senior aide to Russian President Vladimir Putin on how to present a peace plan regarding Ukraine to President Trump. This has reignited long-held suspicions among Ukrainians about Witkoff's loyalties and intentions.

Donald Trump recently targeted New York Times reporter Katie Rogers in a Truth Social post, labeling her as 'ugly inside and out' after she co-authored an article questioning his energy levels as he approaches his 80th birthday. This incident follows a pattern of derogatory remarks Trump has made towards female journalists, including a previous comment where he referred to another reporter as 'piggy.'

EU's foreign policy chief, Kallas, stated that Russian President Putin is seeking to negotiate an end to the Ukraine war, acknowledging that victory on the battlefield is unattainable. This comes amid a push from the US to facilitate peace talks, highlighting the ongoing conflict's complexity and the need for diplomatic solutions.