Louisiana lawmakers have approved a congressional map favouring Republicans, removing one majority-Black district following a Supreme Court ruling that deemed the previous map an illegal racial gerrymander. The new boundaries aim to increase Republican representation in the state’s congressional delegation. Legislative approval was secured with a 28-to-10 Senate vote.

The commander of U.S. Southern Command, General Francis Donovan, met with Cuban General Roberto Legrá Sotolongo at Guantanamo Bay to discuss operational security. This rare high-level engagement follows increased pressure from the Trump administration on Cuba amid ongoing tensions and recent visits by U.S. officials to the island.

Experts warn that the bloated carcass of Timmy, a young humpback whale found near Anholt, may explode, prompting authorities to advise the public to keep their distance.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s decision to name a Special Operations Forces unit, Heroes of the UPA, has prompted significant backlash from Polish officials. President Karol Nawrocki expressed profound disappointment, labelling the move as detrimental to Polish-Ukrainian relations, and suggested revocation of Zelenskyy’s Order of the White Eagle.

Federal agents previously investigated the Southern Poverty Law Center’s informant programme for potential tax violations but did not bring charges after IRS lawyers found it legally compliant. The inquiry, initiated during President Trump’s term, expanded from an initial FBI probe regarding possible embezzlement by a former chief financial officer.

Health emergency declared over Ebola outbreak in the DRC and Uganda as US now plans to transport infected Americans to Europe for treatment.

France is launching an inquiry into the treatment of its nationals aboard the Gaza flotilla, as announced by Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot. Reports allege violations including humiliation and sexual violence during their detention, prompting Barrot to refer the case to the Public Prosecutor for further investigation.

What’s going on?
Rescuers confirmed the successful evacuation of one of seven villagers trapped in a flooded cave in Laos. Their release came after significant efforts to reach those stranded due to heavy flooding. The operation marks a critical step towards ensuring the safety of the remaining individuals.
In a stark contrast, the BBC reported, “Rescuers race to free villagers trapped in flooded Laos cave,” focusing on the urgent efforts and the ongoing situation. Conversely, the New York Post emphasised desperation in their headline, stating, “Desperate search for 7 villagers trapped in a flooded Laos cave enters seventh day,” highlighting the prolonged nature of the incident. This difference underscores a shift from a focus on action to the emotional stakes involved in the rescue.
Coverage analysed: BBC | New York Post

A federal judge has temporarily halted the Justice Department’s implementation of the $1.7 billion Anti-Weaponization Fund, pending consideration of a lawsuit challenging its legality. U.S. District Judge Leonie Brinkema’s order prevents any disbursement of funds amid concerns over its establishment and potential payouts.

Yurii Muzyka, 34, has been sentenced to at least 30 years for murdering his ex-girlfriend Halyna Hoisan in Greenwich. He stabbed her six times in front of their young daughter while violating a non-molestation order. The attack followed a history of stalking and harassment.