Here are the top world news stories for the week leading up to August 3, 2025, based on recent reports:
- Ukraine-Russia Conflict Intensifies: Ukraine launched long-range drone strikes on Russian military and energy infrastructure, including a significant attack in Sochi. Russia advanced in the Krasnolimansk direction and faced a deadly strike on Kyiv, killing 31, including five children. President Trump issued an ultimatum for Russia to halt its offensive by August 8 or face financial penalties, prompting Russia to move nuclear submarines closer to U.S. waters. Ukraine also uncovered a major drone procurement corruption scheme.
- Gaza Humanitarian Crisis Worsens: Dozens of Palestinians were killed by Israeli forces near aid distribution sites, exacerbating a level 5 famine. Hamas released videos of hostages, described as “living skeletons,” increasing pressure for a ceasefire. The UK, Canada, and France announced plans to recognize a Palestinian state at the UN General Assembly, which Trump warned could complicate trade deals. U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff visited a controversial aid site in Gaza, criticized by Hamas as a “propaganda show.”
- Global Seismic Activity: An 8.7-magnitude earthquake struck Russia’s Kuril Islands and Japan’s Hokkaido, triggering tsunami warnings for Japan, the U.S. West Coast, Alaska, and Hawaii. A 4.9-magnitude quake hit near Islamabad, Pakistan, and a smaller quake shook New Jersey and New York.
- Trump’s Tariff Escalation: President Trump imposed a 35% tariff on Canadian exports after failed trade talks and threatened tariffs on Russia and other nations, causing global market disruptions. A factory closure in Lesotho was linked to these tariffs, signaling broader economic impacts.
- Myanmar Ends State of Emergency: Myanmar’s military junta lifted a four-year state of emergency ahead of planned elections, though the top general remains in control, raising questions about democratic progress.
- South Korea Political Drama: Jailed ex-President Yoon Suk Yeol continued to resist investigators, refusing questioning in a high-profile case, highlighting ongoing political tensions.
- Space and Science Developments: NASA-ISRO’s NISAR satellite launched successfully, and a SpaceX rocket carried four astronauts to the International Space Station despite weather delays. Australia discovered a giant 15-inch stick insect species.
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