Financial Times

The US and China will resume talks in Stockholm on August 12 to try to resolve long-standing economic disputes and extend a tariff truce. Without a deal, global supply chains could face new shocks from a sharp increase in US tariffs.

Russia has depleted its vast stockpiles of Soviet-era weapons, leading to a reduction in supplies from military depots to the front lines to 2022 levels. The country is increasingly dependent on supplies from China, North Korea, and Iran to support its defense industry and army.

The American-German company Auterion will supply Ukraine with 33,000 AI-powered drone strike kits by the end of the year. This delivery, part of a $50 million Pentagon contract, will transform ordinary drones into autonomous combat platforms.

Wall Street's relentless rise this summer has pushed stock valuations close to record levels, prompting warnings of "euphoric" markets entering "bubble" territory. The S&P 500 index has reached historic peaks, and the cost of borrowing for US corporations has approached its lowest level in decades.

A new artificial intelligence platform demonstrates high accuracy in diagnosing myalgic encephalomyelitis by analyzing biological changes in gut bacteria, immune responses, and metabolism. The study found impaired interactions between the microbiome, metabolites, and immune system in patients.

Germany and France are rallying EU members to support retaliatory measures against US tariffs until Washington compromises. They propose using the Anti-Coercion Instrument (ACI), which would allow blocking American companies and restricting import/export.

According to Martin Wolf, the outcome of the war in Ukraine will affect the future of European liberal democracy. He emphasized that Ukraine is fighting for the right to choose its own destiny, against Russia's autocracy and its desire to dominate Europe.

Russia's "swarm" drone tactic breaches Ukraine's defenses, tripling the number of Shahed hits. From April to June, 15% of drones penetrated defenses, compared to 5% in the previous three months.

The French government has launched a criminal investigation against company X for alleged algorithm manipulation and fraudulent data extraction. The company denies the accusations and calls the investigation politically motivated.

Poland is finalizing negotiations to acquire a stake in the satellite company Iceye, which gained prominence for tracking Russian troop movements. This investment will add to the $550 million raised by the company, which is valued at over $1 billion.

A study by the Barcelona Supercomputing Center found a direct link between climate extremes and sharp spikes in food prices. This highlights the growing vulnerability of food systems to environmental shocks, leading to inflation and affecting the consumption of poorer households.

Donald Trump has toughened his demands on the EU, insisting on a minimum duty of 15-20% in a trade agreement. The US is considering reciprocal duties over 10% and threatens 30% tariffs on imports from the EU and Mexico starting August 1.

Donald Trump stated that Ukraine should go on the offensive to change the situation on the battlefield. Volodymyr Zelenskyy replied that this is possible with the availability of "the right weapons."

The European Commission has temporarily suspended its investigation into the social network X for violating digital transparency rules. This decision is related to trade negotiations between the EU and the US to avoid escalating tensions with Washington.

Donald Trump stated that Volodymyr Zelensky should not strike Moscow, even if the US provides Ukraine with long-range weapons. He emphasized that he does not take any side, but seeks to stop the death of thousands of people.

Euroclear CEO Valerie Urbain believes that the European Commission's plan to invest frozen Russian assets in riskier instruments to increase profits for Ukraine is "expropriation. " She warns of significant risks and potential losses that could arise from such actions.

Donald Trump, in a private conversation with Volodymyr Zelenskyy on July 4, asked if the Ukrainian Armed Forces could strike Moscow and St. Petersburg if the US provided appropriate weapons. Zelenskyy answered in the affirmative, and Trump supported the idea to force Russia into negotiations.

Linda Yaccarino, CEO of X Corp. , announced her resignation after two years. The Financial Times reports that the reason was disagreements with Elon Musk, whose direct style clashed with her sophistication, despite the successful expansion of X's advertising business.

German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius stated the readiness of the German military to defend NATO's eastern flank, particularly Lithuania, from a possible Russian attack. Germany has already realized the need for rearmament and increased defense spending.

German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius stated that the country will not supply long-range Taurus missiles to Ukraine to avoid depleting its own stocks. Berlin has already transferred three out of twelve Patriot systems to Kyiv and will ask the US for permission to purchase two more for Ukraine.

The Pentagon is demanding that Japan and Australia clearly define their actions in the event of a US-China war over Taiwan, causing frustration among allies. This is part of US efforts to strengthen deterrence and prepare for a potential conflict.

European officials doubt that Donald Trump's change in rhetoric regarding Russia and Putin indicates a pro-Ukrainian stance. They believe that Trump sees Putin as a partner and Zelenskyy as an obstacle to a peace agreement.

The US Department of State plans to lay off hundreds of employees after a Supreme Court decision allowed job cuts. This reduction, which accounts for about 15% of the staff, aims to increase the department's efficiency.

Western Europe recorded its hottest June ever, with an average temperature of 20. 49°C. This is 2.81°C above the 1991-2020 average, indicating increased heat stress in the region.

The Port of Rotterdam is reserving berths for vessels with military cargo and planning cargo diversions in case of conflict. This is being done in coordination with Antwerp and at NATO's request.

The European Commission is considering options to finance Ukraine's budget deficit for next year, which could reach $19 billion. Off-budget grants, advance loans, and the use of Russian assets are being discussed.

The production of Eurofighter Typhoon fighter jets in the United Kingdom has practically ceased due to a lack of new orders. This raises concerns about the loss of critical aerospace industry skills and affects the country's participation in the Global Combat Air Programme.

The European Union plans to create emergency reserves of critical minerals, including rare earth metals, and cable repair kits. This decision was made amid growing concerns about the EU's vulnerability to attacks and hybrid threats.

The United States of America is considering imposing 17% tariffs on agricultural exports from the European Union. European officials are trying to negotiate exemptions for certain goods, including aircraft parts and alcohol.

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced an upcoming conversation with Donald Trump, which will take place tomorrow or in the coming days. Ukraine expects continued American support, particularly the supply of Patriot systems.