Top News — Thu, Jun 18, 1:03 PM UTC

Hegseth announces review of US forces in Europe, threatens NATO cuts

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced a six-month review of U.S. troop deployments in Europe, criticizing NATO allies for insufficient spending and their response to the Iran war, stating some nations would 'fail' the defense review.

Ukrainian Drones Strike Moscow Oil Refinery in Largest Attack

Ukraine conducted its largest drone attack on Moscow since the war began, striking a major oil refinery near the capital and disrupting commercial flights. President Zelenskyy warned that if Ukraine burns, Moscow will burn.

Illegal immigrant identified as ‘ringleader’ in White House UFC drone plot

Abraham Alvarez, an illegal immigrant who received DACA status, has been identified as the alleged 'ringleader' in a plot to attack a UFC event at the White House using explosive drones and snipers.

Mexico City fans flock to cathedral, pray to ‘Soccer baby Jesus' for World Cup win’

Soccer fans are flocking to Mexico City to pray for World Cup victory and experiencing American culture, while the tournament's opening group stage matches have featured viral fan moments and on-field controversies.

Taiwan seeks US weapons for self-defense amid growing China threat

Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te and diplomats emphasized the need for US weapons for self-defense as the threat from China grows, despite a poll showing more Taiwanese favor goodwill with Beijing over deeper US defense ties.

Trump signs Iran deal; gas prices dip below $4

President Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian signed an initial agreement to end the war and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, leading to a drop in oil and gas prices. The deal, however, faces bipartisan criticism and questions about Iran's nuclear program.

Bank of England holds rates at 3.75%; steady inflation slashes hike chances

The Bank of England's Monetary Policy Committee voted 7-2 to keep interest rates at 3.75%, citing an 'encouraging' fall in oil prices but signaling caution on future hikes due to inflation concerns triggered by the Iran war.

Gunmen attack Niger capital airport; explosions, gunfire erupt

Gunmen attacked Niger's main international airport in Niamey, leading to an hours-long shootout and explosions. The country has been fighting a militant Islamist insurgency for a decade, with a similar attack occurring in January.

Apple Hikes Prices as AI Boom Drives Up Chip Costs

Apple CEO Tim Cook warned that price increases are 'unavoidable' due to the AI boom driving up chip costs, while the 'Godfather of AI' Yann LeCun criticized Musk's xAI as a 'failure' and warned of a 'big bubble explosion' in the industry.

Kevin Warsh's First Fed Meeting: Treasury Yields Jump

Kevin Warsh's first Federal Reserve meeting as chairman saw the 2-year Treasury yield rise, with Warsh reportedly committed to bringing inflation down to 2%. Short-dated U.S. Treasury yields and the dollar also rose after the Fed hinted at rate increases.

Last updated: 6/18/2026, 1:03:31 PM