We Live in Exciting Times.

Don't waste yours.

The historic moment of Kamala Harris's ascent as the first woman, first Black woman, and first South Asian to potentially win the US presidency has brought renewed hope for Democrats. The rise of Indian American politicians, who make up just over 1% of the US population, has also gained attention. Indian Americans represent nearly double their proportion in Congress and have seen growing political success at the state and national levels. However, it is important to not overlook the complex history and privileges that have contributed to their success. The portrayal of Indian American success as innate perpetuates the harmful 'model minority' myth and ignores the structural inequalities and racism in America. It is crucial to understand the context of immigration history and the diverse experiences within the Indian American community. The 2024 election, with the prominence of Usha Vance and the differing ideologies she represents, underscores the complexity of representation based solely on ethnic or racial background.

The European Union has released 1.5 billion euros from frozen Russian assets for Ukraine's defense and reconstruction. The funds, derived from interest earnings, will be transferred to Ukraine to make it a safer place to live. EU member states agreed in May to use billions of euros from interest gains for arming Ukraine and rebuilding the country after the war. The EU has frozen around 200 billion euros of Russian central bank assets as part of sanctions imposed in 2022. Ukrainian Prime Minister Denis Schmyhal thanked the EU for its support, while the Kremlin spokesperson called the EU's actions illegal. Meanwhile, Hungary accuses Ukraine of 'blackmailing' it and Slovakia by blocking a Russian oil pipeline.

The FBI has confirmed that former President Donald Trump was indeed struck by a bullet in the ear during an assassination attempt at a Pennsylvania rally. This confirmation comes after conflicting accounts and doubts about Trump's injuries. The FBI's statement, the most definitive account so far, has sparked fury from Trump and his allies. The lack of information surrounding the attack has fueled conspiracy theories. The FBI's hesitation to support Trump's version of events has further strained the relationship between the former president and the federal law enforcement agency. Trump's former White House doctor, Ronny Jackson, has treated him since the attack but has faced scrutiny. The FBI's Shooting Reconstruction Team is still examining evidence from the scene. Trump's campaign has declined to release medical records or allow the doctors who treated him to speak. Senator Lindsey Graham has called on FBI Director Christopher Wray to correct his testimony, and Trump has criticized Wray, saying the FBI has lost the confidence of America. Jackson has defended the bullet wound account, dismissing conspiracy theories. Trump has since been seen in public without a bandage on his ear.

Venezuela's upcoming elections have attracted international attention and offer the possibility of a power shift after 25 years of authoritarian rule. The outcome could have significant economic implications, as a more transparent election process may lead to a normalization of diplomatic relations and potential debt restructuring. The elections hold promise for Venezuelans, with the potential for economic recovery and improved living conditions. However, there are concerns about the legitimacy of the results and the acceptance of the outcome by both sides. The international community, multilateral organizations, and investors are closely monitoring the elections, weighing the potential for payment willingness and economic growth under a new government. The stakes are high, with the possibility of significant gains or losses for investors and the potential for a path towards economic recovery and improved quality of life for Venezuelans.

Experts stress the critical need for clear regulations in the U.S. crypto industry, highlighting the pivotal role of political leadership in shaping the future of digital assets. Advocates urge support for pro-crypto candidates and accountability of elected officials, emphasizing the ongoing dialogue leading up to and beyond the elections. The demand for transparency extends to the appointment of the next SEC chair, as emphasized by Tyler Winklevoss. Meanwhile, The Digital Chamber champions legal battles to shape regulations and clarify the ambiguous regulatory landscape. The industry's struggle for clarity and legal precedents, such as differentiating digital assets from investment contracts, are central to the Chamber's advocacy efforts. Questions arise on whether the U.S. government's stance on cryptocurrency hampers technological innovation, with concerns over political agendas hindering progress in the evolving crypto space.

Following the apprehension of Sinaloa cartel leaders Ismael 'El Mayo' Zambada García and Joaquín Guzmán López, son of El Chapo, the Mexican president emphasizes the importance of transparency. Despite doubts about reducing fentanyl trafficking, the arrests could expose potential connections between the state and criminal organizations. This development comes amidst US-Mexico negotiations on security, trade, energy, and migration, raising concerns about jeopardizing the bilateral relationship. The call for transparency extends to the US, with Mexico seeking clarity on the recent arrests made in Texas without Mexican authorities' involvement. The Sinaloa cartel's significant role in fentanyl and methamphetamine trade, as highlighted by DEA Chief Anne Milgram, adds complexity to the situation.

The Russian justice system has handed down prison sentences ranging from 10 to 22 years to five defendants in various cases. In the Oryol region, a trans activist accused of 'high treason' was sentenced to twelve years for allegedly transferring money to Ukraine to finance the Ukrainian armed forces. In Moscow, two men were sentenced to 22 and 15 years for their involvement in a terrorist organization. Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock criticized Belarus for parading a German citizen sentenced to death on television and called for the protection of his dignity and rights. The Russian central bank raised the key interest rate to 18 percent due to rising inflation, the highest level since April 2022. Russia claimed to have intercepted two British fighter jets and a reconnaissance aircraft over the Black Sea with a Su-57 fighter jet. The Ukrainian military intelligence service reported that the Russian armed forces are currently focusing their attacks on the Donbass region. To address the shortage of troops, Ukraine has been recruiting prisoners from prisons since May. The German government expressed concern about the fate of the German citizen sentenced to death in Belarus. Security experts believe that Ukraine faces significant challenges due to the upcoming US election and there is no hope for a quick resolution to the war on terms favorable to Russia.

Following Hamas' attack on October 7, the Israeli army recovers the bodies of 5 victims in a tunnel in Gaza: Maya Goren, a 56-year-old woman, and 4 soldiers - Ravid Katz, Oren Goldin, Kiril Brodski, and Tomer Yaakov Ahimas. The operation has forced the displacement of about 150,000 people in the town of Jan Yunis and has been carried out with the help of the Shin Bet secret service. Netanyahu addresses the US Congress, where he faces criticism, including from President Biden, who suggests that Netanyahu is delaying the end of the war in Gaza for political reasons. Delegations from Hamas, Israel, Qatar, Egypt, and the United States have been trying for months to agree on a ceasefire to release the remaining hostages, but families continue to pressure Netanyahu to prevent this agreement.

Prominent figures like Donald Trump, Robert F. Kennedy Jr, Marsha Blackburn, and Cynthia Lummis bring political undertones to the Bitcoin 2024 conference in Nashville. Discussions highlight Bitcoin's values of liberty and self-sovereignty against regulatory challenges. Senators Lummis and Scott advocate for light crypto regulation and using Bitcoin for opportunity zones. Mayor Fulop plans to invest Jersey City's pension fund in Bitcoin. Meanwhile, Kennedy defends Bitcoin as an antidote to unlimited currency printing. The debate centers on freedom, financial autonomy, and the potential for government investment in Bitcoin, reflecting a broader political interest in cryptocurrency's future.

South African authorities detain 95 Libyans in Mpumalanga raid on suspected military camp, uncovering visa misrepresentation and potential criminal ties. Libya, still grappling with post-Gaddafi conflict, sees factions seeking foreign training. The US sanctions IS operatives in South Africa. With security concerns prevalent and a significant private security industry in South Africa, the incident highlights ongoing challenges in the region.

G20 finance ministers in Brazil are discussing a proposal to impose a 2% global wealth tax on billionaires. The proposal is supported by France, Spain, and South Africa, but is opposed by US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen. Economist Gabriel Zucman estimates that this tax could raise $200-250 billion annually from the 3,000 billionaires worldwide. A recent Oxfam report reveals that the richest 1% have accumulated $42 trillion over the past decade, 36 times more than the wealth of the poorest 50%. Brazilian Finance Minister Fernando Haddad states that the ministers have agreed to address the proposal even after Brazil's presidency ends. The G20 also pledged to work together to tax the ultra-rich, acknowledging that wealth inequality undermines growth. The final communique noted wars and conflicts as economic risks. While Brazil sought a minimum tax, a compromise was reached. Greenpeace has criticized super-rich evasion, and economists Zucman and Stiglitz have commented on the issue. Additionally, a US-Brazil climate partnership was announced.

Recent reports from Ukraine's Donbass region highlight the 79th Brigade's successful defense against a significant Russian attack, showcasing 57 tanks and 200 infantry near Kurachowe. Amidst the conflict, Ukrainian forces face challenges as they relocate troops to Kharkiv due to Russian advances. Military experts warn of Ukrainian forces being overstretched. Meanwhile, videos of Ukrainian operations reveal destroyed Russian tanks and personnel carriers, as well as casualties. In a separate development, US-provided Bradley armored vehicles play a crucial role in Ukraine's defense, facing drone and air attacks, prompting strategic modifications to safeguard these assets.

Judge Juan Carlos Peinado of the Court of Instruction 41 in Madrid rejects Pedro Sánchez's request to provide a written statement, instead summoning him to appear in person at La Moncloa on July 30. The investigation focuses on the professional ties of Sánchez's wife, Begoña Gómez, with businessmen who obtained public contracts. The temporary replacement judge, Carlos Valle y Muñoz-Torrero, emphasizes the distinction in the Criminal Procedure Law regarding witnesses' knowledge of the facts. Sánchez is compelled to testify in the corruption case against his wife, who is accused of misusing her position. The interrogation, ordered by Judge Peinado, is set to take place at the Moncloa Palace. This legal development makes Sánchez the second Spanish Prime Minister to testify in a court case, following in the footsteps of Mariano Rajoy.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has ruled out a coalition with the BSW at the federal level due to their pro-Russian stance. The Social Democrats are currently facing low approval ratings both nationally and in several states, including Saxony, Thuringia, and Brandenburg. Despite this, Scholz is confident that Dietmar Woidke of the SPD will remain as the Minister President in Brandenburg. In response to criticism from FDP leader Christian Lindner, the SPD defended their faction leader Rolf Mützenich and accused the FDP of self-promotion instead of coalition work. The SPD emphasized the importance of setting the right course in Parliament, including the budget, rather than pleasing the FDP Finance Minister. Mützenich had criticized the deployment of US missiles in Germany, called for negotiations on the budget, and demanded a suspension of the debt brake. The SPD faction stood firm in their support of Mützenich as a crucial pillar of the coalition.

Progress in HIV prevention and treatment continues, yet the global pandemic persists as a significant challenge. In regions like Latin America, the Middle East/North Africa, and Eastern Europe/Central Asia, rising infection rates highlight the urgent need for increased commitment and funding. The introduction of Lenacapavir, a new preventive drug, has shown remarkable 100% protection in studies involving young African women. However, global funding for HIV efforts fell by 5% to $19.8 billion in 2023, falling short of the required $29.3 billion. Alarmingly, 25% of HIV-positive individuals lack access to essential medication, and annual AIDS-related deaths exceed the UN target of 250,000, reaching 630,000. Despite these challenges, promising developments in HIV treatment were presented, offering hope for progress. Initiatives like Global Fund programs have saved millions of lives, emphasizing the crucial commitment to end the AIDS pandemic by 2030 while safeguarding human rights for all.

The WTO has reached a groundbreaking agreement on the first global rules for digital trade. This accord focuses on boosting cross-border e-commerce and covers aspects like customs duties, digital signatures, cybersecurity, and consumer protection. It also emphasizes the involvement of developing countries and addresses open government data, telecommunications regulations, and spectrum usage. Dozens of WTO countries, handling 90% of the $5 trillion global e-commerce, adopted rules in 2019 to enhance online trade, including electronic signatures and tariff exemptions. However, India and South Africa express reservations about the increasing number of such agreements. For this agreement to become part of WTO regulations, all 164 members must approve it.

As Kamala Harris positions herself for a potential 2024 presidential bid, speculation grows about who she would choose as her running mate. Many believe she would select a straight, white man to appeal to voters in a nation that has never elected a woman or a person of color as its leader. Among the contenders are governors Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania, Roy Cooper of North Carolina, and Andy Beshear of Kentucky, as well as Arizona Senator Mark Kelly. Some have mentioned California Governor Gavin Newsom, but constitutional restrictions prevent running mates from residing in the same state. The choice is crucial, as it must unify the party and ensure electability in the race for the White House.

Elon Musk's X platform has quietly removed Bitcoin and MAGA emojis from hashtags, causing a stir in the crypto community. Alongside this move, X has been involved in political campaigning, supporting Trump and limiting the visibility of Democratic candidate Kamala Harris while promoting pro-Trump hashtags. The platform's decisions are significant, as X previously charged for branded emojis to enhance brand presence. Additionally, speculation arises about the potential impact on Bitcoin prices due to the emoji removals. Musk's involvement in both crypto and political spheres adds layers of complexity to X's recent actions.

Tensions are rising over water supply for agriculture in the EU. Activists propose rainwater harvesting and floating solar panels as alternatives to 'mega-basins'. They also question the water-intensive agricultural export model, calling for a shift to more sustainable practices. An ancient Spanish court, the Tribunal de les Aigües, offers a potential solution to global water conflicts. This 1,000-year-old court in Valencia manages scarce water resources through democratic representation and public hearings. Similar models, such as the waterschappen in the Netherlands and Bali's subak system, provide lessons for addressing water scarcity worldwide. Palestinian hydrologist Abdelrahman Al Tamimi suggests adapting the Tribunal of Waters model to resolve water conflicts in the Middle East.

Former senior officer suggests racism influenced police mistreatment of a Rochdale man at Manchester airport, leading to officer suspension and public uproar. IOPC launched investigation following video evidence of excessive force. Assault on officers prompts arrests, protests, and erosion of trust. Community demands independent probe with mayor's assurance. Home Office and political figures express concern and pledge action. Family calls for calm after disturbing incident unfolds with physical harm and arrests. MP and protesters seek justice and transparency in the face of alleged police brutality.

Vice President Kamala Harris recently delivered a keynote address at the American Federation of Teachers' 88th National Convention in Houston, Texas. The event marked the first labor union endorsement for Harris since announcing her presidential campaign. During her speech, Harris emphasized her ties to teachers' unions and highlighted key education priorities such as student loan forgiveness and school safety. However, she did not address certain contentious issues like pandemic-related school closures and school choice. Republicans are aiming to challenge Harris on these unresolved topics, underscoring potential areas of disagreement.

Remains of Russian Geran 1/2 drones were discovered in Romania near the border with Ukraine after attacks on Ukrainian civilian infrastructure. NATO confirms that there is no evidence of an intentional attack on Alliance territory. Finland conducted aerial surveillance, and the Romanian Ministry of Defense is continuing its investigation. Meanwhile, Ukraine destroys 25 Russian drones and reports drone attacks in various regions. In another development, a fire breaks out at a Russian military airbase in Crimea. The fall of Russian drone debris in Romania has put the country on alert, leading NATO to increase its presence in the Black Sea region.

As Paris buzzes with preparations for the opening ceremony of the Summer Olympic Games, there's palpable excitement in the air. However, hosting the 2024 Olympics has stirred mixed feelings among Parisians, with murmurs of protests adding tension. The Olympics take place against a backdrop of political instability in France, with a technical government in place after snap elections. The impact of these tensions on the event is uncertain. Paris is currently in a state of exception, with joy and tension on the day of the opening ceremony. While the Eiffel Tower remains a crowd magnet, locals are expressing frustration over restrictions. The iconic landmark has become even more attractive with the addition of the Olympic rings. The city has transformed into a catwalk of sports, with global stars such as LeBron James, Simone Biles, and Rory McIlroy in attendance. However, some residents, like Olivier Martin, feel uncomfortable in their own city due to the increased traffic and security measures. The Games are accompanied by the largest security operation in French history, with thousands of police officers and soldiers deployed. Parisians are facing road closures, increased ticket prices, and restricted access to certain areas. Despite the challenges, the opening ceremony promises to be a spectacle with performances by Céline Dion, Aya Nakamura, and Lady Gaga. The eyes of the world will be on Paris as the Olympic Games unfold, but for some locals, the hope is that the event will conclude soon and life can return to normalcy.

Clashes erupted between police and residents in Abidjan during a demolition and eviction operation near the 4th Abidjan Bridge. Women and elderly individuals were seen in distress as their houses were demolished, reflecting the emotional toll of the situation. The community faced significant upheaval as people tried to salvage their belongings amidst the chaos. The scenes of despair highlight the human impact of the housing crisis in Ivory Coast, calling attention to the challenges faced by the vulnerable population.

Former Attorney General Bill Barr's involvement in a misleading DOJ statement about potential voter fraud in Pennsylvania before the 2020 election has been criticized by the Justice Department's watchdog. The statement, linked to discarded military ballots, was found to be an innocent error by a mentally impaired worker. Barr briefing Trump on the issue may have fueled false election security claims. The watchdog's report suggested reforms, emphasizing the need to avoid politicizing such matters. Ultimately, Biden emerged victorious in the 2020 election.