QtrendsTrump held a 90-minute call with Putin on July 4, offering to mediate an end to the Russia-Ukraine war, while a separate attack on Crimea killed one. The founder of one of China's largest underground churches was freed from prison weeks after Trump requested his release. Iran began dayslong funeral ceremonies for Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, killed in the ongoing war. The US celebrated its 250th Independence Day with Trump hosting a combative speech. Venezuela's earthquake death toll climbed to 2,595, with rescue efforts shifting to recovery.
The founder of one of China's largest underground Christian churches has been released from prison and reunited with his family in the United States. His release came weeks after former President Trump publicly requested it. The case had drawn international attention to China's religious freedom record. The pastor's family confirmed his arrival in the US.
President Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin held a 90-minute phone call on July 4, which Moscow described as 'businesslike'. Trump reportedly offered to help mediate an end to the Russia-Ukraine war. Separately, a Ukrainian attack on Crimea killed one person. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy also held a separate call with Trump. The Kremlin confirmed Trump's peacemaking overtures.
The United States marked its 250th Independence Day with fireworks and a speech by President Trump. Trump used the occasion to celebrate the nation's milestone while also deriding his political opponents. The celebrations were scaled back in some areas but drew large crowds of Trump supporters. The event highlighted the deep political divisions in the country.
Iran has commenced dayslong funeral ceremonies for Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed in the ongoing war. Top officials attended prayers in Tehran as the nation mourns its longtime leader. The funeral is seen as an intensely political moment for Iran's leadership succession. The processions are expected to continue for several days.
The death toll from Venezuela's twin earthquakes has risen to 2,595, with rescue operations transitioning to recovery efforts. A security guard was pulled alive from a building basement eight days after the quakes, offering a rare moment of hope. Venezuelan doctors abroad have returned home to provide aid. International assistance continues to arrive in the affected regions.