Russian strikes set Kyiv monastery ablaze, killing nine
Russian forces launched a major overnight attack on Ukraine, striking the historic Kyiv Pechersk Lavra monastery and setting it on fire. At least nine people were killed in the attacks, including five in Kharkiv. The strikes mark a significant escalation against one of Ukraine's most cherished cultural and religious landmarks. CNN, BBC, Al Jazeera, NPR and The Guardian all lead with the attack on the UNESCO-listed site.
President Donald Trump celebrated his 80th birthday by holding separate phone calls with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, signaling continued diplomatic engagement on the Ukraine conflict. The White House hosted a UFC event on its lawn as part of the celebrations, with Trump watching ringside. The Iran peace deal framework also emerged on his birthday, which NPR notes he marked with a mix of diplomacy and spectacle.
The stepson of Norway's crown prince has been sentenced to four years in prison after being found guilty of two counts of rape. The case has drawn extensive media attention across Europe due to the royal family connection. Al Jazeera, BBC, NPR and The Guardian all report on the conviction and sentencing.
A formal peace deal between the United States and Iran is scheduled to be signed on Friday, with Al Jazeera, NYT, The Guardian, SCMP and China Daily all confirming the timeline. The US and Pakistan jointly announced the deal is 'complete'. The framework was negotiated amid escalating regional tensions and follows months of military conflict.