Lauren Morganbesser

NATO leaders are convening a summit in Ankara where defense spending and procurement are prioritized over shared values. US President Donald Trump has pressured allies to increase defense investments, leading to nearly $120 billion in commitments, with half allocated to American equipment. The summit aims to assess whether these financial pledges will translate into military capabilities.

A heatwave across Europe triggered a partial alcohol ban in France, canceled public events in Spain, and issued weather alerts in Germany and Italy. Temperatures exceeded 40°C under a 'heat dome,' raising health risks, wildfires, and train disruptions. Scientists linked the extreme heat to climate change, warning of prolonged dangerous conditions.

Taiwan’s defense ministry announced a five-day combat readiness exercise as Chinese military activity increased near the island. Analysts suggest China’s deployments aim to gather intelligence on Taiwan’s forces, with Beijing’s leader directing military preparedness for a potential takeover by 2027.