National
Thursday, June 18, 2026 · Columbia
U.S. and Iran Reach Deal to End Conflict and Reopen Strait of Hormuz
The United States and Iran announced an agreement to end their conflict and restore shipping access through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global energy markets. The deal addresses immediate hostilities but leaves several core disputes for future negotiations.
Britain will prohibit social media use for children under 16
The British government announced a ban on social media use for anyone under 16, affecting platforms including TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat and X. The move positions the U.K. among countries implementing stricter online safety measures for minors.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Trump speaks with both Putin and Zelenskyy as Ukraine war intensifies
President Donald Trump held separate phone calls Sunday with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The conversations occurred as drone attacks claimed lives in Russia and British authorities detained a vessel carrying Iranian oil.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
MP Plans New Push for Assisted Dying Bill in Parliament
Labour MP Lauren Edwards announced plans to bring forward the same assisted dying bill that cleared the House of Commons but ran out of time in the House of Lords. The move signals a renewed effort to advance the contentious end-of-life care legislation.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Trump and Pakistani Premier Announce U.S.-Iran Peace Agreement
President Donald Trump and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced Sunday that the United States and Iran have reached a peace agreement. Iranian state media broadcast confirmation of the announcement.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Supreme Court to Review Semiautomatic Rifle Bans
The Supreme Court will examine the legality of bans on certain semiautomatic rifles. This review will determine if such prohibitions violate the Second Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which protects the right to keep and bear arms.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
President Trump Travels to Ankara for NATO Summit on Defense Spending
President Donald Trump is scheduled to attend the annual NATO summit in Ankara, Turkey. A key agenda item involves discussion of defense spending pledges made by allied nations in the previous year. Trump aims to reinforce these commitments.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Funeral Procession Held for Iranian Leader
A funeral procession for Iran's Supreme Leader took place in Tehran. People gathered in the city's streets to observe the event. State media outlets provided coverage of the turnout.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Democratic Leaders Urge Graham Platner to Withdraw Following Sexual Assault Allegation
Top Democrats are calling for Graham Platner to end his bid for the Maine Senate seat after a woman publicly accused him of sexual assault. Platner has denied the accusation, which stems from an alleged incident in 2021.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
President Trump Addresses Nation on Independence Day Amid Varied Weather Conditions
President Donald Trump delivered a speech on Saturday night in observance of America's 250th birthday. The event occurred amidst diverse weather across the country, ranging from high temperatures to heavy rainfall.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
White House Council Releases Report on Smithsonian Leadership
A report from the White House Domestic Policy Council characterizes Smithsonian Institution leaders as 'radical activists.' The document also raises questions about the leadership's trustworthiness. The report appeared on Independence Day.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Trump Delivers July Fourth Address Amidst Storm Disruptions
Former President Donald Trump addressed supporters on July 4th in Washington, D.C., with his speech preceded by severe thunderstorms. Authorities temporarily evacuated the National Mall due to the weather, which delayed portions of planned festivities.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
State Department Introduces Commemorative Passport, Announces Streamlined Application Process
Secretary of State Marco Rubio unveiled a commemorative 'Patriot Passport' at a Washington D.C. reception, honoring the nation's 250th anniversary. The State Department also announced upcoming technological changes to simplify passport applications, including online photo uploads. These initiatives aim to enhance the passport user experience.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Historian Examines Evolution of the American Dream
Historian Heather Cox Richardson explored the historical context of the American Dream, noting its origins in 17th-century Puritan beliefs. Richardson identified key shifts in the concept throughout U.S. history.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Iran Prepares for Public Funeral of Supreme Leader Khamenei
Iran has announced formal funeral proceedings for Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. The events are expected to draw large public participation and attendance from international dignitaries.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
President Trump Visits Mount Rushmore Ahead of Independence Day
President Donald Trump will visit Mount Rushmore for an official Independence Day celebration. His visit includes a speech and a fireworks display, the first at the site in over a decade.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Heat Wave Linked to 25 Deaths, Affects 40 Million Across US Regions
A week-long heat wave has reportedly caused 25 fatalities, with heat alerts issued for 40 million people across multiple US regions. Authorities warn of potential flood and wind threats as storms develop on the East Coast.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
President Trump to Speak on National Mall Ahead of July Fourth Fireworks Display
President Donald Trump will deliver remarks on the National Mall as part of the nation's 250th Independence Day observance. The event features a substantial fireworks display over the capital.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
European Leaders Address Defense Spending and Production for Ukraine
European leaders met to discuss increasing defense production and aid for Ukraine. The discussions focused on expanding ammunition manufacturing and coordinating support efforts.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Extreme Heat Prompts July 4th Event Changes Across U.S.
A significant heat wave is impacting Independence Day celebrations across the United States. Many cities have altered or postponed July 4th events, including fireworks displays and parades. This comes as the nation begins marking America 250, commemorating 250 years since the Declaration of Independence.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Kentucky Governor Seeks Health Update on Senator McConnell
Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear has publicly requested a health update from Senator Mitch McConnell. The call for transparency comes after McConnell sustained a fall and has remained hospitalized, prompting discussions about potential Senate vacancies.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Trump Announces Overseas Manufacturing for Patriot Missile Systems
President Donald Trump stated the United States will issue a license for the overseas production of Patriot air defense systems. This decision facilitates the supply of these systems to Ukraine, supporting its defense against Russian missile attacks.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
ICE Officer Fatally Shoots Man During Houston Traffic Stop
A U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officer shot and killed Lorenzo Salgado Araujo during a traffic stop in Houston. Araujo's family seeks an independent investigation into the incident. The Mexican government plans legal action.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Judge Directs Release of $5.8 Million to E. Jean Carroll
A federal judge has directed the release of $5.8 million to E. Jean Carroll. A jury in 2023 found Donald Trump sexually abused Carroll and defamed her regarding her allegations.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Platner Faces Calls to Withdraw from Senate Race
A recent allegation against Graham Platner has led to calls for his withdrawal from the Senate race. Platner is currently challenging Republican Sen. Susan Collins in a contest that could influence party control of the Senate.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Federal Judge Authorizes Release of $5.8 Million to E. Jean Carroll
A federal judge Wednesday ruled E. Jean Carroll can access $5.8 million previously held in escrow. A jury found former President Donald Trump sexually abused and defamed Carroll, leading to the financial award. Trump's attorneys have appealed the payment authorization.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Oil Prices Rise, Stocks Fall Following End of US-Iran Ceasefire
Crude oil prices increased and stock markets declined after President Trump declared an end to the ceasefire with Iran. This development introduced new uncertainty into existing global economic conditions.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Supreme Court Justices' Disclosures Detail Income from Book Projects
Supreme Court justices' annual financial disclosures offer details about income derived from book projects. These reports outline financial benefits and associated activities, including book signings. The information provides a glimpse into the justices' financial arrangements beyond their judicial salaries.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
DOJ Outlines Criminal Penalties for Noncitizen Voting
The Department of Justice reminded state election officials of potential criminal charges for violations related to noncitizen participation in federal elections. Federal law prohibits individuals who are not U.S. citizens from voting. The memo outlines specific statutes under which prosecutors could pursue cases.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Trump Calls for Halt to U.S. Trade with Spain, Cites Dissatisfaction with Relationship
President Donald Trump has expressed his intention to cease all trade between the United States and Spain. He characterized Spain as a 'terrible partner' and a 'wasted cause' during public statements.
Thursday, June 18, 2026