Russia launched a missile attack on Ternopil, killing at least 10 civilians and injuring dozens, according to Ukrainian officials. This comes as President Volodymyr Zelensky heads to Turkey for peace discussions with Recep Tayyip Erdogan, aiming to intensify international pressure on Russia. The missile strike underscores Moscow's persistent aggression, raising questions about the effectiveness of current global diplomatic and economic sanctions on Russia. Zelensky's efforts to diplomatically isolate Vladimir Putin are increasingly urgent as the conflict escalates.
The NY Times
bostonglobe.com
Denmark's Social Democrats suffer election losses
The Social Democrats in Denmark, led by Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, faced significant losses in municipal elections, including losing control of Copenhagen for the first time in over a century. Analysts attribute the defeat to voter fatigue over Frederiksen's controversial immigration policies, rising food prices, and urban-rural imbalances. The Green Left and Red-Green Alliance gained ground, signaling a shift toward more progressive politics in urban centers. Frederiksen's leadership, while not immediately threatened, may face increased scrutiny as her party reflects on its declining support.
The Guardian
Poland shuts last Russian consulate after sabotage
Poland announced the closure of the Russian consulate in Gdansk following revelations of Russian-linked sabotage of a railway line. The Polish government accused Moscow's secret services of orchestrating the attack, which is seen as part of a broader campaign to destabilize European solidarity with Ukraine. This move sharply reduces Russia's diplomatic footprint in Poland, leaving only its embassy in Warsaw. Western nations continue to grapple with Russia's hybrid warfare strategies aimed at undermining unity in NATO and the EU.
bostonglobe.com
China's escalating tensions with Japan
China suspended seafood imports from Japan, citing concerns over Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's comments about potential military involvement in defending Taiwan. Beijing also ramped up retaliatory measures, including travel warnings and coastguard patrols near disputed waters. This diplomatic row underscores China's sensitivity over Taiwan and its broader geopolitical assertiveness. Japan’s stance reflects shifting dynamics in the Asia-Pacific, where nations are increasingly aligning against China's growing influence.
Washington Post (World)
The Guardian
Economy
New York co-ops face challenges under Local Law 97
Efforts to decarbonize New York City buildings under Local Law 97 have highlighted financial and technical obstacles for co-op residents. While some co-ops, like the International Tailoring Company Building, have successfully transitioned to greener systems, others face prohibitive costs and inadequate support. The law’s ambitious emissions targets risk exacerbating inequalities among property owners unless more robust financial incentives and technical assistance are provided. This reflects the broader challenge of balancing climate goals with economic realities.
Inside Climate News
Politics
UK lacks defense plan amid rising threats
A UK parliamentary report criticized the government for lacking a comprehensive defense strategy, especially in light of escalating threats from Russia and global instability. The report highlighted gaps in public awareness and military readiness. Defense Secretary John Healey announced plans for new arms factories to boost domestic production and create jobs, but questions remain about the UK's ability to meet NATO obligations. This underlines the need for better communication and investment in national security.
The Guardian
Environment
Trump-era climate policies linked to global deaths
An investigative analysis by The Guardian and ProPublica found that Donald Trump's rollback of climate regulations could result in 1.3 million additional heat-related deaths worldwide by 2115, disproportionately affecting poor countries in Africa and South Asia. These findings highlight the human cost of prioritizing fossil fuel expansion over emissions reduction. The absence of the US from recent international climate discussions further underscores the global leadership vacuum in addressing the climate crisis.
The Guardian
Rising sea levels threaten New Jersey
A new report from the New Jersey Climate Change Resource Center warned of accelerating sea-level rise, projecting up to 4.5 feet by 2100 in worst-case scenarios. This poses significant risks to coastal communities and ecosystems, particularly in areas like Atlantic City, which has already experienced increased flooding. The report calls for more frequent policy reviews and greater investment in resilience measures to mitigate the growing threats of climate change.
Inside Climate News
Health
Breakthrough TB drug shows promise
A new antibiotic, sorfequiline, demonstrated potential to significantly shorten tuberculosis (TB) treatment duration in trials involving 309 patients across five countries, according to the TB Alliance. This could improve treatment adherence and reduce transmission rates, especially in regions with high TB prevalence. However, experts caution against over-reliance on a single treatment, emphasizing the need for continued innovation in diagnostics and health system improvements.
The Guardian
The Guardian