Powerful earthquake in Russia’s Far East sparks tsunami alerts

A former CIA officer, Susan Miller, is pushing back against Tulsi Gabbard’s explosive claim that Barack Obama engaged in a "treasonous conspiracy" to undermine Trump during the 2016 election. Miller, who worked on intelligence reports about Russian meddling, says Gabbard—now Trump’s national intelligence director—misunderstands how spy agencies operate and misrepresented key findings. It’s a sharp rebuke from someone with firsthand knowledge of the investigations.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just another partisan spat—it’s a rare public clash between a seasoned intelligence professional and a high-profile political figure over one of the most contentious chapters in recent U.S. history. Miller’s pushback adds weight to the argument that Gabbard’s accusations are baseless, but it also keeps the debate over Russia’s role in 2016 alive, fueling deeper divisions about trust in government and intelligence agencies. For voters, it’s a reminder of how messy and personal these battles over truth and credibility can get.

Vice President Kamala Harris has officially taken herself out of the running for California governor, shutting down speculation about a potential return to state politics. Her decision throws the race wide open, with big names like Xavier Becerra, Antonio Villaraigosa, and Katie Porter now in the spotlight for the high-stakes role leading the nation’s most populous blue state.

Editor’s Note: Harris’s move isn’t just about her—it reshapes California’s political landscape. Without her in the mix, the field gets more unpredictable, and other contenders now have a clearer shot. Given California’s influence on national policy, who ends up in the governor’s mansion could have ripple effects far beyond the state’s borders.

Emily Damari, a recently freed British-Israeli hostage, has criticized UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, accusing him of "rewarding terror" by pushing for a Palestinian state. She argues his stance puts him "on the wrong side of history," reflecting deep divisions over how to address the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just political noise—Damari’s personal ordeal gives her criticism weight, and her words could sway public opinion. Starmer’s approach to the conflict is now under sharper scrutiny, especially from those who see recognition of a Palestinian state as legitimizing Hamas. It’s a messy, emotional debate with real stakes for diplomacy and victims’ families.

Vice President Kamala Harris has officially ruled out a run for California governor, stating she won't hold elected office "for now." Her decision leaves the race for the deep-blue state's top job wide open, while Senate Democrats gear up for a push on justice department reforms.

Editor’s Note: Harris’s announcement is a big deal because it reshapes California’s political landscape—without her in the race, other Democrats now have a clearer shot. It also hints at her broader career plans (or lack thereof) post-Biden administration. Meanwhile, Senate Democrats are shifting focus to legal reforms, showing where the party’s priorities lie as election season heats up.

Ukraine’s foreign minister says the government will revise a controversial anti-corruption law after it sparked protests. Critics accused President Zelensky of interfering with corruption investigations targeting top officials. Parliament is set to vote on the updated version Thursday.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just about legal tweaks—it’s a test of Ukraine’s commitment to fighting graft, especially while under global scrutiny during wartime. Backsliding on anti-corruption efforts could hurt public trust and international support, both of which Ukraine desperately needs right now.